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Budget-friendly diet plan for lowering cholesterol

Lowering cholesterol on a budget is possible with the right plan. A budget-friendly diet plan for lowering cholesterol includes affordable foods that help maintain heart health. Simple changes in your diet can make a big difference without costing a lot.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Oats
  • Brown rice
  • Whole wheat bread
  • Lentils
  • Quinoa
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Spinach
  • Broccoli
  • Carrots
  • Tomatoes
  • Apples

  • Bananas
  • Oranges
  • Blueberries
  • Strawberries
  • Skinless chicken breast
  • Turkey breast
  • Salmon
  • Tuna
  • Tofu
  • Chickpeas
  • Black beans

  • Greek yogurt
  • Low-fat milk
  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Olive oil
  • Avocado
  • Garlic
  • Onions
  • Green tea
  • Low-sodium vegetable broth
  • Eggs

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on June 5, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.

Diet plan overview

The budget-friendly diet plan for lowering cholesterol focuses on heart-healthy, low-cost foods. It includes plenty of fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that help reduce cholesterol levels. This plan is designed to support cardiovascular health without high grocery bills.

By using affordable ingredients, this diet makes it easy to improve your cholesterol levels. It’s a sensible and cost-effective approach to heart health.

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Foods to eat

  • Oats and Barley: Great for lowering cholesterol levels due to their high fiber content.
  • Fruits: Apples, strawberries, and citrus fruits are good options that help manage cholesterol.
  • Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines offer healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Nuts: Almonds and walnuts can improve cholesterol levels when eaten in moderation.
  • Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and beans are excellent for a heart-healthy diet.
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Studies find that people who east nuts five times per week have a decreased risk of developing heart disease compared to those who do not eat nuts at all.

Marc Gillinov, M.D., Steven Nissen, M.D.

Foods not to eat

  • Processed Meats: Sausages, bacon, and hot dogs are high in unhealthy fats.
  • Full-Fat Dairy: Cream, butter, and whole milk should be avoided or limited.
  • Fried Foods: Chips, fried chicken, and other fried items are high in trans fats.
  • Sugary Treats: Pastries, candies, and sweetened beverages contribute to poor cholesterol levels.
  • Fast Food: Burgers, fries, and pizza often contain unhealthy fats and salt.

Main benefits

A budget-friendly diet plan for lowering cholesterol can introduce you to heart-healthy foods that are easy on the wallet. This plan often includes affordable fiber-rich options like oats and legumes. You'll find it easier to incorporate cholesterol-lowering foods into your diet without added costs. Additionally, it can encourage cooking at home, which often results in healthier, less expensive meals.

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📊 Recommended food breakdown (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

Managing your cholesterol doesn't have to cost a fortune. Beans and lentils make another budget-friendly appearance - they're high in fiber, which can help lower bad cholesterol. Opt for lean protein sources like skinless chicken breast and fish. Embrace heart-healthy fats like avocados and olive oil. Limit processed foods and saturated fats, which can be expensive cuts of meat and pre-made meals.

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7-Day Meal Plan for Budget-Friendly Diet for Lowering Cholesterol

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with sliced banana and a sprinkle of walnuts
  • Lunch: Grilled skinless chicken breast with quinoa and steamed broccoli
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with brown rice and sautéed spinach
  • Snack: Apple slices with a handful of almonds

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with strawberries and a handful of walnuts
  • Lunch: Lentil soup with carrots, tomatoes, and garlic
  • Dinner: Tuna salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a drizzle of olive oil
  • Snack: Blueberries with a side of low-fat milk

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, banana, and almond milk
  • Lunch: Chickpea salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and olive oil dressing
  • Dinner: Baked chicken breast with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli
  • Snack: Orange slices with a handful of almonds

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with blueberries and a sprinkle of flaxseeds
  • Lunch: Black bean and corn salad with bell peppers and onions
  • Dinner: Grilled turkey breast with quinoa and steamed green beans
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with strawberries

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and a slice of whole wheat toast
  • Lunch: Lentil and vegetable stew with low-sodium vegetable broth
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with brown rice and sautéed kale
  • Snack: Apple slices with peanut butter

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with sliced banana and a sprinkle of walnuts
  • Lunch: Chickpea and quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes
  • Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli
  • Snack: Blueberries with a side of low-fat milk

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, apple, and almond milk
  • Lunch: Black bean salad with bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes
  • Dinner: Baked turkey breast with brown rice and steamed mixed vegetables
  • Snack: Orange slices with a handful of almonds

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.