Controlling Cholesterol With Diet: What Actually Works

The Truth About Dietary Cholesterol

For a long time, we were told to avoid eggs and shrimp because of the cholesterol they contained. Modern science has shown that the biggest culprit behind high blood cholesterol isn't the cholesterol you eat, but rather saturated and trans fats.

Foods to Focus On

• Soluble Fiber: Found in oats, beans, apples, and flaxseed. It binds to cholesterol in your digestive system and drags it out of your body.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish (like Ilish or salmon) and walnuts. Excellent for overall heart health.
• Plant Sterols/Stanols: Naturally occur in small amounts in vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. They block the body from absorbing cholesterol.

Foods to Limit

Limit your intake of red meat, full-fat dairy products, and commercially baked goods which often contain unhealthy trans fats.