Diabetes-Friendly Low Cholesterol Diet Plan: Easy and Effective
Diet plan grocery list
Spinach
Quinoa
Skinless Chicken Breast
Salmon
Almonds
Avocado
Whole Grain Bread
Eggs
Greek Yogurt
Olive Oil
Broccoli
Brown Rice
Strawberries
Tomatoes
Oatmeal
Tofu
Cottage Cheese
Green Beans
Lentils
Walnuts
Flaxseeds
Brussels Sprouts
Turkey Breast
Cauliflower
Blueberries
Oranges
Sweet Potatoes
Low-Fat Milk
Chickpeas
Carrots
Plain Popcorn
Lean Beef
Plain Greek Yogurt
Diet plan overview
Monitoring cholesterol levels is equally important in those with diabetes, and one of the low cholesterol diet plans for diabetes is aimed at addressing the issue of blood sugar and cholesterol together. As per this diet, one is required to consume more of those foods rich in fiber content, such as oats, barley, and legumes, which tend to reduce the level of bad cholesterol and prove good for maintaining blood sugar levels. Nuts and fatty fish form another major part of a diabetes diet that offers healthy fats to the heart and does not lead to an increase in sugar levels.
These are not only going to help earmark diabetes but also decrease the chances of heart diseases. It encourages healthy eating of lean proteins, whole grain, and tons of vegetables while avoiding sugar- and fat-laden food items. Easy substitutions like using avocado instead of butter can pack many everyday meals full of heart health and diabetic-friendliness.
Foods to eat
- Non-Starchy Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, and leafy greens offer essential vitamins with minimal carbohydrates.
- Legumes: Lentils, black beans, and chickpeas provide protein and fiber while helping control blood sugar.
- Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines for their omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and cholesterol.
- Whole Grains: Quinoa, barley, and oatmeal to boost fiber intake and maintain steady blood sugar levels.
- Avocados: Packed with monounsaturated fats that help improve cholesterol levels.
✅ Tip
Foods not to eat
- Processed Meats: Sausages, bacon, and deli meats are often high in unhealthy fats and salt.
- Sugary Foods and Drinks: Sodas, candies, and pastries can spike blood sugar levels and raise cholesterol.
- Refined Carbohydrates: White bread, pasta, and white rice can lead to rapid sugar spikes.
- Fried Foods: Deep-fried snacks and meals are usually high in trans fats and cholesterol.
- Full-Fat Dairy: Butter, cream, and full-fat cheeses can raise cholesterol levels.
Main benefits
📊 Recommended food breakdown (Source)
How to budget on this diet plan
Meal plan suggestion
7-Day Meal Plan for Low Cholesterol Diet Plan for Diabetics
Day 1
- Breakfast: Oatmeal topped with blueberries and flaxseeds
- Lunch: Grilled salmon with quinoa and steamed spinach
- Dinner: Skinless chicken breast, roasted Brussels sprouts, and brown rice
- Snack: Greek yogurt with strawberries and walnuts
Day 2
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt parfait with strawberries, almonds, and flaxseeds
- Lunch: Turkey breast sandwich with whole grain bread, avocado, and tomato slices
- Dinner: Tofu stir-fry with broccoli, carrots, and green beans
- Snack: Plain popcorn
Day 3
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and whole grain toast
- Lunch: Grilled salmon salad with spinach, tomatoes, and olive oil dressing
- Dinner: Lean beef stir-fry with broccoli, carrots, and brown rice
- Snack: Cottage cheese with blueberries and walnuts
Day 4
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt bowl with quinoa, strawberries, and flaxseeds
- Lunch: Lentil salad with avocado, tomato, and spinach
- Dinner: Skinless chicken breast with roasted sweet potatoes and steamed cauliflower
- Snack: Almonds and orange slices
Day 5
- Breakfast: Cottage cheese with blueberries and walnuts
- Lunch: Chickpea and spinach salad with olive oil dressing
- Dinner: Grilled turkey breast with quinoa, roasted Brussels sprouts, and steamed green beans
- Snack: Plain popcorn
Day 6
- Breakfast: Oatmeal topped with strawberries, almonds, and flaxseeds
- Lunch: Grilled salmon with steamed broccoli and brown rice
- Dinner: Tofu stir-fry with Brussels sprouts, carrots, and cauliflower
- Snack: Greek yogurt with blueberries and walnuts
Day 7
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and whole grain toast
- Lunch: Grilled chicken salad with spinach, tomatoes, and olive oil dressing
- Dinner: Lean beef stir-fry with broccoli, carrots, and brown rice
- Snack: Cottage cheese with strawberries and almonds
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⚠️ Keep in mind
Article reviewed
- Written by our editorial team.
- Published on May 13, 2024
- Updated on Nov 1, 2024