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One day meal plan for cholesterol

The one-day meal plan for cholesterol aims at improving heart health by focusing on cholesterol-lowering foods. It includes fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.

This diet plan is curated to reduce bad cholesterol levels and increase good cholesterol. It’s about making heart-healthy eating a delicious and fulfilling experience.

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Meal plan shopping list

  • Whole grain bread
  • Avocado
  • Strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Raspberries

  • Lentils
  • Lettuce
  • Spinach
  • Arugula
  • Olive oil

  • Apples
  • Almond butter
  • Turkey breast
  • Quinoa
  • Asparagus

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Meal plan overview

Explore "One Day Meal Plan for Cholesterol", a comprehensive guide to eating for better heart health. This plan includes meals that are specifically designed to manage and lower cholesterol levels.

We provide a balanced approach to each meal, ensuring you consume foods that are beneficial for your cholesterol. From nutrient-packed breakfasts to wholesome dinners, every meal is an opportunity to support your heart health.

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 a serving of red grapes or a glass of red wine, as they contain resveratrol, which can help reduce LDL cholesterol.

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 One 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?

Buying whole grain bread in bulk when on sale and freezing it can be a cost-effective strategy. Avocados and berries are often cheaper when bought in season. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber and are more affordable when purchased in bulk. Consider making your own nut butters at home for a healthier, cheaper alternative to store-bought versions.

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Extra tips ✨

Any healthy snack ideas?

Cholesterol-lowering snacks emphasize soluble fiber and healthy fats:

  • Oatmeal with sliced almonds
  • Apple with peanut butter
  • Whole grain crackers with avocado
  • Chia pudding with berries
  • Walnuts or almonds
  • Edamame beans
  • Carrot and cucumber sticks with hummus
What should I drink on this meal plan?

Drinks beneficial for cholesterol management include green tea, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels, red wine in moderation for its heart-healthy resveratrol, soy milk as a plant-based, cholesterol-lowering alternative to dairy, pomegranate juice rich in antioxidants, and water to aid overall metabolic health and hydration.

How to get even more nutrients?

For those looking to manage cholesterol, focusing on the type of fats consumed is key. Incorporating healthy fats from sources like olive oil, avocados, and nuts can help improve your cholesterol profile by boosting the good cholesterol (HDL) and lowering the bad (LDL). Foods rich in soluble fiber, such as oats, apples, and beans, are also effective at reducing cholesterol absorption in the bloodstream. Include lean proteins and avoid trans fats and high saturated fats found in processed foods.

Meal plan suggestions

One Day Meal Plan for Cholesterol

  • Breakfast: Whole grain toast with avocado and a side of mixed berries (calories: 300, protein: 10g, carbs: 45g, fat: 15g)
  • Lunch: Lentil soup with a side of mixed greens salad, olive oil dressing (calories: 400, protein: 20g, carbs: 50g, fat: 15g)
  • Snack: Apple slices with almond butter (calories: 200, protein: 6g, carbs: 30g, fat: 10g)
  • Dinner: Grilled turkey with a side of quinoa and steamed asparagus (calories: 500, protein: 40g, carbs: 40g, fat: 20g)

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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.

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Article Reviewed

Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of updating it on April 12, 2024.