Cholesterol affects long-term heart health. This updated guide explains what LDL, HDL and triglycerides mean and gives practical, evidence-based steps - diet, exercise, quitting smoking, sleep, stress control and when to consider medication - to keep cholesterol in a healthy range.
Choose lean, skinless poultry, seafood, and plant proteins; reduce saturated fat and control portions to support lower LDL cholesterol. Gradual swaps - fish, legumes, tofu - make the shift sustainable.
A cholesterol chart lists cholesterol, saturated fat and related data for common foods. Use it to compare choices, focus on saturated/trans fats and overall dietary patterns, and discuss results with your clinician.
Limit foods high in saturated and trans fats - like fried items, processed meats, and full-fat dairy - and choose fiber-rich, plant-forward options to help lower LDL cholesterol. Work with your clinician for personalized advice.
HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is the "good" cholesterol carrier that helps remove excess cholesterol from arteries and deliver it to the liver. Lifestyle changes - exercise, quitting smoking, and healthy fats - help improve HDL; overall heart risk depends on the full lipid profile.
Animal foods contain dietary cholesterol, but saturated and trans fats have a larger impact on LDL. Lower your cholesterol by choosing plant-based foods, unsaturated fats, fish, and soluble fiber while limiting red/processed meat, full-fat dairy, and trans fats.
Lowering LDL cholesterol works best by cutting saturated/trans fats, boosting soluble fiber, and choosing plant-forward foods. Dietary cholesterol (only in animal foods) matters less than the type of fat and overall pattern.
Limit fatty red meats, many fast-food items, and high-fat dairy like whole milk and butter to reduce saturated fat and lower LDL cholesterol. Practical swaps: lean cuts, plant proteins, low-fat dairy, and unsaturated oils.
Cholesterol balance matters for heart and stroke risk. Combine diet, exercise, weight control, smoking cessation, stress management and, when needed, medications - guided by regular testing - to lower your risk.