Foods to Avoid to Lower Cholesterol Levels

If cholesterol levels are an issue for you, you want to lower your unhealthy cholesterol, otherwise known as LDL. This can be done by avoiding foods that are harmful to your heart and can cause unhealthy cholesterol levels to rise. Knowing which foods to avoid to lower your cholesterol levels will help you live a healthier lifestyle while also improving your overall heart health.

Saturated Fats

Foods high in saturated fats, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, are known to increase cholesterol levels. These fats are commonly found in red meats such as beef, lamb and pork; whole fat dairy products including ice cream, mayonnaise, sour cream, butter and cottage cheese; organ meats like kidneys, gizzards and hearts; roasted duck; processed meats such as salami and pepperoni; deep fried foods of any variety; many prepared and processed foods; boxed cereals; boxed cake mixes; coconut oil and palm kernel oil. Many fast foods are also high in saturated fats.

Trans Fats

Trans fats affect the body in a manner similar to saturated fats, according to the American Heart Association. They can contribute to heart disease as much as saturated fats can. These fats, known as hard fats, have a shape of their own when at room temperature. Shortening, lard and partially hydrogenated oils fall into this category of fats. The Mayo Clinic states that trans fat raises your LDL bad cholesterol and lowers your HDL "good" cholesterol.

Foods which contain trans fats include commercially prepared baked foods such as pies, cakes, cookies, pastries and energy bars. Other foods include breads and crackers, breakfast cereals and a variety of animal products, according to the USDA. As public concern about trans fats rises, more bakeries are preparing foods without trans fats.

Processed Foods

Foods that are prepackaged and processed are best avoided, unless you know for certain that all ingredients are listed on the label. According to the Mayo Clinic, many processed and canned foods contain a high sodium content. This can contribute to heart disease.

Reading Labels

It is important to read and understand product labels so you know what you are consuming. Product labels will list the amount of fats and what type. Labels will also list ingredients. If the product lists partially hydrogenated oil or shortening as the first ingredient, it's best to avoid it.

Good foods

Foods that help lower cholesterol are plentiful. According to the Mayo Clinic, the top 5 foods to boost your heart health include oatmeal, certain nuts, fish, olive oils, and foods with plant sterols (margarines, orange juice and yogurt drinks fortified with plant sterols).