What foods should you avoid when have bad cholesterol?

It's great that you're taking steps to manage your cholesterol! Here's a breakdown of foods to avoid or limit when you have high cholesterol:

Foods to Limit or Avoid:

* Saturated and Trans Fats: These fats raise your LDL (bad) cholesterol. Found in:

* Animal Products: Full-fat dairy (cheese, butter, ice cream), fatty meats (beef, pork, lamb), poultry skin, and processed meats (sausages, bacon).

* Processed Foods: Baked goods, fried foods, packaged snacks, and commercially prepared meals.

* Cholesterol: While your body produces cholesterol, it's still best to limit dietary cholesterol:

* Organ Meats: Liver, brain, kidney.

* Shellfish: Shrimp, crab, lobster.

* Egg Yolks: (Limit yolks, focus on egg whites)

* Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates: These contribute to weight gain, which can worsen cholesterol levels. Found in:

* Sweets: Candy, pastries, sugary drinks, desserts.

* Processed Grains: White bread, white rice, pasta.

Foods to Emphasize:

* Unsaturated Fats: These help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol. Found in:

* Olive Oil: Use for cooking and drizzling.

* Avocados: Add to salads, toast, or smoothies.

* Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds.

* Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines.

* Fruits and Vegetables: Low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with nutrients.

* Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, oats, barley.

* Lean Protein: Chicken breast, turkey, fish, tofu.

Key Points:

* Moderation: It's all about balance. Enjoy everything in moderation and focus on healthy choices most of the time.

* Reading Labels: Pay attention to saturated and trans fat content in food labels.

* Talk to Your Doctor: It's essential to discuss a personalized dietary plan with your doctor or a registered dietitian.

Remember, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress can also significantly improve your cholesterol levels.