5 Foods That Can Raise Cholesterol Levels

Although some important foods should be part of your daily diet, some foods should be avoided because of their high cholesterol record. Below are 5 foods that can increase cholesterol levels and should be avoided:

1. Fast food
2. Whole dairy foods
3. Fatty meats
4. Butter
5. Baked goods

Studies have shown that omega-3 fats help reduce harmful triglycerides and may increase HDL levels, which is desirable. Good fats include monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats that are good for the heart. Trans fats raise bad cholesterol and lower good cholesterol. Eating foods that contain both saturated fat and trans fat will cause your body to produce more low-density lipoproteins, thereby increasing the level of "bad" cholesterol in the blood.

If you want to lower cholesterol, try eating foods rich in dietary fiber (especially soluble fiber) because these foods can lower the level of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood. Foods rich in soluble fiber help prevent the absorption of cholesterol in the digestive tract. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can increase the content of important cholesterol-lowering compounds in the diet. 

Establishing healthy habits, such as eating a healthy and balanced diet and staying active, can also help prevent high cholesterol levels.