Cholesterol diets normally revolve around two basic goals. First, there is the desire to lower levels of bad cholesterol while promoting an increase in good cholesterol levels. Second, the diet usually is an ongoing change in lifestyle that makes it possible to effectively maintain acceptable levels of cholesterol once they are achieved. There are different types of cholesterol diets based on the general health and level of bad, or HDL, cholesterol present. Here are a few examples.

For people who are not dealing with other ongoing medical issues, the choice of cholesterol diets is fairly straightforward. They are likely to limit or possibly eliminate certain foods from daily consumption. For example, the patient may be encouraged to avoid simple carbohydrates that tend to pack on extra pounds. Excess weight means more body fat to house excess cholesterol in the bloodstream. Eating whole eggs daily may also be discouraged, while also encouraging consumption of egg whites.

Many cholesterol diets will also involve avoiding any food options that include a great deal of sodium. This is because it is not uncommon for someone dealing with high levels of HDL cholesterol to also have high blood pressure. When this is the case, the diet plan will often include staying away from fast foods, since they are high in fat and sodium content. Going with green vegetables and lean meats seasoned with herbs and spices other than salt are often encouraged as a way to deal with both situations at the same time.

Many cholesterol diets will call for increased consumption of fish. Options such as albacore tuna, salmon, and mackerel contain the right type of fats to discourage an increase of bad cholesterol while supporting an increase in LDL or good cholesterol. Many physicians recommend obtaining these essential Omega 3 fatty acids through food rather than through fish oil supplements, as the supplements are often rich in calories.

It is not unusual for cholesterol diets to emphasize the need for a minimum amount of fiber in the diet every day. The diets will often encourage the consumption of whole grains, carrots, apples, and brown rice as excellent ways to obtain the right amount of fiber. Fiber helps to flush cholesterol out of the system, thus lowering the level found in the blood.

Some cholesterol diets are designed to deal with a combination of high cholesterol and high blood glucose levels. This can be especially tricky, since a number of low-cholesterol foods happen to be high in carbohydrates. In this scenario, the diet is likely to include a fair amount of green leafy vegetables such as kale or collards and the consumption of pork or red meat that is extremely lean. In order to provide fiber, bread options may focus on whole grain breads, such as oatmeal bread, that are less likely to cause a spike in blood sugar levels but still help to flush excess cholesterol from the body.

Regardless of the exact format, cholesterol diets are normally engaged along with lifestyle changes. Regular exercise helps to lower cholesterol levels. Cutting back on alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco will also aid in improving overall health and indirectly aid in lowering high levels of bad cholesterol. In all cases, it is important to talk with your doctor about how to structure your diet and exercise plan so you receive the most benefit in the shortest period of time.