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Plant-Based Meal Plan for Lowering Cholesterol: Heart-Healthy

With the Plant-Based Meal Plan for Lowering Cholesterol, experience a delightful array of meals that bring together cholesterol-friendly ingredients in a plant-based format. Explore the culinary diversity of dishes like avocado and bean salads, nut-based spreads, and whole grain creations, all designed to support heart health and lower cholesterol naturally.

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Meal plan grocery list

Oatmeal

Almond milk

Berries

Flaxseeds

Quinoa

Spinach

Cherry tomatoes

Cucumber

Avocado

Lemon vinaigrette

Carrots

Hummus

Lentil soup

Whole wheat bread

Broccoli

Banana

Protein powder

Whole grain wrap

Roasted vegetables

Black beans

Tahini sauce

Apples

Walnuts

Sweet potato

Kale

Mushrooms

Chia seeds

Coconut milk

Strawberries

Bell peppers

Corn

Lime-cilantro dressing

Rice cakes

Tofu

Brown rice

Natural peanut butter

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Meal plan overview

Embark on a cholesterol-conscious journey with the Plant-Based Meal Plan for Lowering Cholesterol. This innovative plan weaves together cholesterol-lowering foods such as oats, nuts, and legumes with a rich tapestry of fruits and vegetables, all pivotal in a plant-based diet.

Focusing on fiber-rich and heart-healthy fats, this plan is a creative twist on traditional cholesterol management, blending taste with health in every meal.

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Foods to eat

  • Vegetables: A variety of vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and leafy greens in dishes.
  • Legumes: Black beans, pinto beans, and lentils in tacos, burritos, or salads.
  • Whole Grains: Brown rice and whole grain tortillas for fiber and nutrients.
  • Dairy or Plant-Based Alternatives: Cheese, yogurt, or plant-based alternatives for protein and calcium.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) and nuts for healthy fats and protein.
  • Fruits: Mango, pineapple, and avocado for natural sweetness and healthy fats.
  • Healthy Oils: Olive or avocado oil for cooking and dressings.
  • Herbs and Spices: Cilantro, cumin, and lime for authentic Mexican flavors.

✅ Tip

Experiment with adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to tacos and burritos for extra flavor and nutrients.

Foods not to eat

  • Meat: All kinds of meat are excluded in a vegetarian diet.
  • Fried Foods: Deep-fried snacks and dishes high in unhealthy fats.
  • Refined Carbs: Limit white flour tortillas and white rice.
  • High-Fat Dairy: Full-fat cheeses and creams in excess.
  • Processed Vegetarian Foods: Often high in sodium and preservatives.
  • Sugary Sweets: Traditional Mexican sweets high in sugar.
  • Alcohol: Offers little nutritional benefit and can be high in calories.
  • Sugary Beverages: Sweetened drinks and sodas.
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Main benefits

The Mexican meal plan for vegetarians highlights the diversity of vegetarian options in Mexican cuisine. It includes a variety of beans, cheese, vegetables, and whole grains. Dishes like vegetable fajitas, bean burritos, and cheese enchiladas provide a balanced and flavorful vegetarian diet.

🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fiber

Other

Food alternatives

Lowering cholesterol on a plant-based diet is achievable with these simple swaps:

  • To reduce saturated fat, avocado can replace cheese in sandwiches and wraps.
  • A rich source of fiber, oats are an excellent alternative to breadcrumbs in recipes.
  • When preparing stir-fries, using tempeh instead of tofu offers higher protein.
  • For a crunchy snack, baked chickpeas can take the place of nuts, lowering overall fat intake.
  • In place of cream-based sauces, pesto made with avocado offers a heart-healthy option.

How to budget on this meal plan

Oatmeal, quinoa, and spinach are staples that can be bought in bulk for savings. Berries, whether fresh or frozen, are great for breakfast and snacks. Utilize a variety of beans like black beans and lentils in meals for protein and fiber. Homemade tahini sauce and hummus can be more economical and healthier. Incorporate a variety of vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers in salads and wraps.

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Extra tips

Any healthy snack ideas?

Support your heart health with these 7 plant-based snacks known for lowering cholesterol:

  • Oatmeal topped with sliced bananas and walnuts
  • Chia seed pudding with berries
  • Green smoothie with kale, pineapple, and ginger
  • Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
  • Whole grain crackers with almond butter
  • Bean and vegetable soup
  • Avocado salad with tomatoes and cucumber

What should I drink on this meal plan?

In a plant-based diet for lowering cholesterol, water is crucial for overall health. Green tea can help reduce cholesterol levels. Herbal teas like hibiscus or rooibos are heart-healthy options. Soy milk, rich in isoflavones, is a good dairy alternative. Fresh vegetable juices, rich in fiber, can also aid in cholesterol management.

How to get even more nutrients?

Lowering cholesterol with a plant-based diet is highly effective due to its natural lack of dietary cholesterol. Focus on soluble fiber from foods like beans, oats, and apples, which help reduce cholesterol absorption. Plant sterols found in nuts and seeds also contribute to lowering blood cholesterol levels. Soy products, which are high in protein and beneficial for heart health, can replace higher cholesterol sources of protein.

Meal plan suggestion

Plant-Based Meal Plan for Lowering Cholesterol

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with almond milk, topped with berries and flaxseeds (calories: 300, protein: 8g, carbs: 50g, fat: 8g)
  • Lunch: Quinoa salad with spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado, dressed with lemon vinaigrette (calories: 400, protein: 10g, carbs: 50g, fat: 18g)
  • Snack: Carrot and cucumber sticks with hummus (calories: 150, protein: 5g, carbs: 20g, fat: 6g)
  • Dinner: Lentil soup with a side of whole wheat bread and steamed broccoli (calories: 450, protein: 18g, carbs: 60g, fat: 10g)

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, banana, almond milk, and a tablespoon of almond butter (calories: 300, protein: 8g, carbs: 40g, fat: 12g)
  • Lunch: Whole grain wrap with roasted vegetables, black beans, and a tahini sauce (calories: 400, protein: 12g, carbs: 60g, fat: 15g)
  • Snack: A small apple with a handful of walnuts (calories: 200, protein: 4g, carbs: 25g, fat: 12g)
  • Dinner: Baked sweet potato with a side of sautéed kale and mushrooms (calories: 400, protein: 10g, carbs: 70g, fat: 10g)

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Chia seed pudding made with coconut milk and topped with sliced strawberries (calories: 280, protein: 6g, carbs: 30g, fat: 14g)
  • Lunch: Mixed bean salad with bell peppers, corn, and avocado, dressed with a lime-cilantro dressing (calories: 350, protein: 10g, carbs: 45g, fat: 15g)
  • Snack: Whole grain rice cakes with avocado (calories: 180, protein: 4g, carbs: 28g, fat: 8g)
  • Dinner: Vegetable stir-fry with tofu and a side of brown rice (calories: 450, protein: 20g, carbs: 60g, fat: 15g)

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Whole grain toast with natural peanut butter and slices of banana (calories: 350, protein: 10g, carbs: 45g, fat: 15g)
  • Lunch: Veggie burger on a whole grain bun with lettuce, tomato, and a side salad (calories: 400, protein: 15g, carbs: 50g, fat: 15g)
  • Snack: A handful of mixed nuts (calories: 180, protein: 5g, carbs: 8g, fat: 16g)
  • Dinner: Ratatouille served over quinoa (calories: 400, protein: 10g, carbs: 60g, fat: 12g)

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Vegan yogurt with granola and mixed berries (calories: 300, protein: 6g, carbs: 40g, fat: 10g)
  • Lunch: Stuffed bell peppers with a mix of brown rice, black beans, and vegetables (calories: 400, protein: 12g, carbs: 60g, fat: 10g)
  • Snack: Fresh fruit salad (calories: 120, protein: 2g, carbs: 30g, fat: 0.5g)
  • Dinner: Chickpea curry with spinach and cauliflower rice (calories: 450, protein: 15g, carbs: 55g, fat: 15g)

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Almond milk and berry smoothie with a scoop of plant-based protein powder (calories: 300, protein: 20g, carbs: 30g, fat: 10g)
  • Lunch: Arugula salad with roasted butternut squash, pumpkin seeds, and balsamic dressing (calories: 350, protein: 8g, carbs: 45g, fat: 15g)
  • Snack: Edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt (calories: 150, protein: 12g, carbs: 10g, fat: 5g)
  • Dinner: Vegan mushroom risotto with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts (calories: 450, protein: 15g, carbs: 60g, fat: 15g)

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Overnight oats with chia seeds, almond milk, and sliced peaches (calories: 350, protein: 10g, carbs: 50g, fat: 12g)
  • Lunch: Vegan sushi rolls with avocado, cucumber, and carrot, served with a side of miso soup (calories: 400, protein: 10g, carbs: 60g, fat: 10g)
  • Snack: Sliced bell peppers with guacamole (calories: 150, protein: 3g, carbs: 18g, fat: 10g)
  • Dinner: Grilled eggplant and zucchini with a tomato and basil sauce, served with a side of quinoa (calories: 400, protein: 12g, carbs: 60g, fat: 12g)

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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.