Cholesterol Foods to Avoid

Cholesterol is defined by the American Heart Association as a "soft, waxy substance found among the lipids (fats) in the bloodstream and in all your body's cells." There are certain foods you should avoid if you're trying to lower your cholesterol.

LDL Cholesterol

Avoid foods high in LDL cholesterol because they can clog the arteries and increase your risk of developing heart disease. LDL cholesterol can be found in foods high in saturated and trans fat, so avoid foods like butter, cream, red meat, and french fries.

HDL Cholesterol

HDL cholesterol is actually considered "good" cholesterol because it can help unclog arteries and decrease your chances of getting heart disease. Foods high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats like olive oil, almonds, and salmon are good for helping increase your HDL levels.

Saturated Fat

Avoid foods high in saturated fat because these may raise your LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. Eat less fatty cuts of meats like beef and pork, full fat dairy, butter and coconut oils to decrease the amount of saturated fat you're eating and avoid raising your cholesterol.

Trans Fat

According to the Mayo Clinic, trans fat is the worst type of fat you can eat because it raises LDL (bad) cholesterol and lowers HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Avoid foods high in trans fat to help lower your cholesterol. Some of these foods include french fries, donuts, cakes, cookies, processed foods and any foods that contain "partially hydrogenated oil."

Foods You Should Not Avoid

In addition to foods you should avoid, there are certain foods you should eat more of to help lower cholesterol levels. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should eat more of these foods for optimal cholesterol and overall health: oatmeal, nuts, fish, olive oil and vegetables.