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7-day Meal Plan For Cholesterol

Looking to manage cholesterol through diet? Our 7-day meal plan for cholesterol focuses on heart-healthy foods. We'll guide you through nutritious meal choices and show you how to turn them into a convenient shopping list. Let's take a step towards a healthier heart!

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Meal plan grocery list

  • Oatmeal
  • Almonds
  • Mixed berries
  • Apples
  • Chicken breasts
  • Olive oil
  • Carrots
  • Hummus
  • Salmon fillets
  • Broccoli
  • Quinoa
  • Whole grain bread
  • Avocado
  • Oranges
  • Turkey breast

  • Lettuce
  • Tomatoes
  • Greek yogurt
  • Honey
  • Shrimp
  • Brown rice
  • Spinach
  • Bananas
  • Flaxseeds
  • Walnuts
  • Lentils
  • Bell peppers
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Green beans
  • Eggs

  • Pears
  • Tofu
  • Chia seeds
  • Cottage cheese
  • Pineapple
  • Ground turkey
  • Beans
  • Chili seasonings
  • Onions
  • Mushrooms
  • Mixed nuts
  • Cod
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Whole grain pancake mix
  • Asparagus

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on December 19, 2023.
• Updated on June 21, 2024.

Meal plan overview

Looking to manage cholesterol through diet? Our 7-day meal plan for cholesterol focuses on heart-healthy foods. It's designed to help lower cholesterol levels and improve overall heart health.

Enjoy a variety of tasty, cholesterol-friendly meals that benefit your heart. It's a proactive approach to eating for a healthier heart.

Foods to eat

  • Oats and Whole Grains: Choose oatmeal, whole wheat, barley, and quinoa for soluble fiber.
  • Fruits: Include apples, berries, citrus fruits, and pears for fiber and antioxidants.
  • Fatty Fish: Incorporate salmon, mackerel, and trout for omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Opt for almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds for heart-healthy fats.
  • Vegetables: Enjoy a variety of colorful vegetables like broccoli, spinach, carrots, and bell peppers.
  • Beans and Legumes: Include lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and peas for plant-based protein and fiber.
  • Plant Sterols: Choose foods fortified with plant sterols, like certain margarines, for cholesterol management.
  • Olive Oil: Use olive oil as a primary cooking oil for monounsaturated fats.
  • Green Tea: Consider incorporating green tea for antioxidants that may benefit heart health.
  • Avocado: Enjoy avocados for monounsaturated fats and other heart-healthy nutrients.
✅ Tip

Include foods rich in soluble fiber like beans and oats to help lower LDL cholesterol levels.

Foods not to eat

  • Saturated and Trans Fats: Limit intake of red meat, full-fat dairy, and processed foods high in unhealthy fats.
  • High-Cholesterol Foods: Reduce consumption of organ meats, shellfish, and egg yolks.
  • Processed Meats: Minimize intake of bacon, sausages, and other processed meats high in saturated fat.
  • Excessive Added Sugars: Reduce intake of sugary beverages, candies, and desserts.
  • Refined Grains: Choose whole grains over refined options for better cholesterol control.
  • Fast Food: Minimize consumption of fast food, which is often high in unhealthy fats and cholesterol.
  • Hydrogenated Oils: Avoid foods containing partially hydrogenated oils, which contain trans fats.
  • Excessive Alcohol: Consume alcohol in moderation, or as recommended by a healthcare professional.
  • Excessive Caffeine: Limit caffeine intake, as excessive amounts may affect cholesterol levels.
  • Highly Processed Snacks: Opt for whole, unprocessed snacks over highly processed alternatives.

Main benefits

The 7-Day Meal Plan For Cholesterol is tailored to manage and lower cholesterol levels through dietary choices. This plan emphasizes heart-healthy fats, including those from avocados, nuts, and olive oil. Incorporating soluble fiber from oats, legumes, and fruits helps reduce cholesterol absorption. Omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish further contribute to heart health. With an emphasis on whole grains, lean proteins, and antioxidant-rich foods, this meal plan supports overall cardiovascular well-being and helps individuals manage their cholesterol levels effectively.

How to budget on this meal plan

To budget this cholesterol-friendly meal plan, focus on buying whole grains, legumes, and nuts in bulk, as they are staples in a heart-healthy diet. Oats, brown rice, lentils, and almonds can be purchased in larger quantities for cost savings. Choose seasonal fruits and vegetables for better prices and quality, and consider frozen options for berries and mixed greens. For proteins, opt for lean meats like chicken, turkey, and fish, and buy them in bulk when on sale. Eggs and tofu are also affordable protein sources. Incorporate more plant-based meals using beans and lentils to reduce costs. Make your own healthy snacks like hummus and mixed nuts, rather than buying pre-packaged versions. Plan meals to use overlapping ingredients, minimizing waste and maximizing usage. Avoid processed foods, which can be more expensive and less healthy.

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Extra tips ✨

Any healthy snack ideas?

Cholesterol-lowering snacks focus on heart-healthy ingredients:

  • Oats with almond milk and berries
  • Nuts like almonds or walnuts
  • Apple slices with natural peanut butter
  • Whole grain crackers with hummus
  • Fresh fruit smoothies
  • Vegetable sticks with guacamole
  • Baked sweet potato fries
What should I drink on this meal plan?

In a diet aimed at managing cholesterol, water is key for hydration and flushing toxins. Green tea has been shown to help lower cholesterol. Almond milk is a heart-healthy, non-dairy alternative. Soy milk can also help reduce bad cholesterol. Fresh orange juice, in moderation, provides antioxidants without added sugars.

How to get even more nutrients?

To manage cholesterol, it’s about choosing the right types of fats and fibers. Emphasize soluble fiber found in foods like oats, beans, and certain fruits, which can help lower bad cholesterol. Lean proteins, particularly plant-based options, are excellent choices. Healthy fats from sources like olive oil, avocados, and nuts can improve your lipid profile. Avoid trans fats and limit saturated fats typically found in processed foods and red meats.

Meal plan suggestions

7-Day Meal Plan for Lowering Cholesterol

Note: This meal plan is designed to help lower cholesterol levels. It focuses on incorporating foods rich in fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants while limiting saturated fats and trans fats. Always consult with a healthcare provider or dietitian for personalized dietary advice.

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with fresh blueberries and a sprinkle of flaxseeds (calories: 300)
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, avocado, and olive oil dressing (calories: 400)
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with quinoa and steamed broccoli (calories: 500)

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, banana, almond milk, and chia seeds (calories: 350)
  • Lunch: Whole grain wrap with hummus, cucumber, and grated carrots (calories: 400)
  • Dinner: Stir-fried tofu with mixed vegetables and brown rice (calories: 450)

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Whole grain toast with avocado and a poached egg (calories: 350)
  • Lunch: Lentil soup with a side of mixed greens salad (calories: 400)
  • Dinner: Grilled turkey breast with sweet potato and green beans (calories: 500)

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with mixed nuts and honey (calories: 300)
  • Lunch: Quinoa salad with chickpeas, bell peppers, and a lemon vinaigrette (calories: 400)
  • Dinner: Baked cod with roasted asparagus and wild rice (calories: 500)

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and mushrooms (calories: 350)
  • Lunch: Turkey and avocado sandwich on whole grain bread (calories: 400)
  • Dinner: Beef stir-fry with bell peppers, broccoli, and brown rice (calories: 500)

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Berry and banana oat bran muffin (calories: 300)
  • Lunch: Baked chicken with quinoa and steamed carrots (calories: 400)
  • Dinner: Grilled shrimp with vegetable stir-fry and quinoa (calories: 450)

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Whole grain cereal with skim milk and fresh strawberries (calories: 300)
  • Lunch: Tuna salad with mixed greens and olive oil dressing (calories: 400)
  • Dinner: Roast turkey with sweet potatoes and steamed Brussels sprouts (calories: 500)

Snacks: Fresh fruits, raw vegetables, nuts, and low-fat dairy products can be enjoyed between meals.

Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day and to adjust portion sizes according to your individual needs.

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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.

fact-checked review
Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on December 19, 2023.
• Updated on June 21, 2024.