High cholesterol is a growing problem in the United States. More than 35 million American adults had blood cholesterol levels high enough to put them at serious risk for heart disease in 2010, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. A diet filled with fat and dietary cholesterol is the primary reason for high levels of cholesterol in the bloodstream.
Fruits and Vegetables
Animals produce cholesterol in their livers. Fruit and vegetables do not provide any dietary cholesterol unless these foods are prepared with animal products, such as butter or cream. A person on a low cholesterol diet can enjoy proper portions of a variety of fruits and vegetables. Roast vegetables with olive oil, shown to reduce serum cholesterol and improve the health of your heart. Home-made vegetable soup contains no cholesterol.
Fiber and Whole Grains
The human body cannot digest fiber -- it passes through the digestive system intact. The fiber itself does not contribute cholesterol. Whole grain products, such as whole wheat bread, and nuts are low in cholesterol and high in fiber. Foods containing soluble fiber, such as oatmeal and bananas, lower the amount of bad cholesterol in the blood.
Dairy
Whole dairy products, such as regular milk and cheese, contain a large amount of cholesterol. There are low cholesterol versions of these healthy foods, such as skim milk and low-fat cheese. Egg substitutes or egg whites are good alternatives for whole eggs.
Desserts
Gelatin fat free and cholesterol free. Use honey or cinnamon as sweeteners. A study published in "The Scientific World Journal" suggests honey reduces blood cholesterol levels.
Drinks
Many beverages are cholesterol free, and some drinks actually reduce serum cholesterol levels. Coffee and tea contain no cholesterol. Many fruit juices are cholesterol-free. Some manufacturers fortify orange juices and yogurt drinks with plant sterols that reduce the amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream. Red wine, grape juice and green tea are beneficial to a low cholesterol diet. Mineral and tap water contain no cholesterol.
Meat
All meat contains about 70 mgs of cholesterol per 3 oz. serving, according to the American Heart Association. Organ meats such as kidneys, brains and livers contain more cholesterol than muscle meats. Shrimp and crawfish contain more cholesterol than fish and other seafood. Some fish, such as salmon and mackerel, contain omega-3 fatty acids that increase HDL, sometimes called "good cholesterol," which provides protection for your heart. Use herbs and spices, which contain no cholesterol, to add flavor to all meat dishes, vegetables and soups.
