Foods Not To Eat Before A Lipid Panel

A lipid panel is a test that determines the total amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in the body. There are two types of cholesterol -- good cholesterol, called high-density lipoprotein, and bad cholesterol, called low-density lipoprotein. Triglycerides are also unhealthy fats that are found in the blood. Eating high-fat foods over time can increase your cholesterol numbers.

Fasting

When having a lipid profile done, a person will be instructed to not consume any food or drink for nine to 12 hours before the test. The best time to schedule a lipid profile is first thing in the morning, so that the fasting is completed overnight. According to MayoClinic.com, drinking water is the only drink allowed during the fasting period. Talk with the doctor about any medications that are being taken as some such as birth control can increase cholesterol levels. According to the Harvard Medical School, consuming foods in the days leading up to the test have little affect on cholesterol levels. However, certain foods over time can increase cholesterol levels.

Meat and Poultry

According to "Nutrition Concepts and Controversies," beef products contribute 16 percent to the amount of cholesterol in the United States diet and poultry contributes 12 percent. Meat products have more saturated fat that contributes to the amount of cholesterol in the blood. Choose leaner cuts of meat, such as sirloin, lean or extra-lean ground beef, eye of round, roasts, top loin, top round steaks and tenderloin. Removing the skin from poultry can also reduce the amount of fat.

Dairy Products

Dairy products are also high in fat content that can increase cholesterol levels in the blood. According to "Nutrition Concepts and Controversies," eggs contribute 30 percent of cholesterol to the American diet. Cheese contributes 6 percent, and milk contributes 5 percent. Dairy products are still important to consume because of the calcium they provide. Choosing dairy products that are low-fat or reduced-fat can help lower cholesterol levels. For example, drinking skim or 2 percent milk is healthier than drinking whole milk. Low-fat or reduced-fat cheeses are healthier options than full-fat cheeses.