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What Not to Eat to Lower LDL

Your doctor may have tested your lipids by drawing several vials of blood from your arm and conducted a lipid panel. Lipid profiles show levels of good cholesterol (HDL), bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides as part of your overall routine physical. HDL, high-density lipoprotein, is conducive to a healthy heart function, while LDL, low-density lipoprotein, actually blocks the arteries and may result in a heart attack.

  1. Fast Food

    • Avoiding fast-food restaurants may be difficult as they are part of the American culture. Fast foods are loaded with LDL, sodium and calories and eaten regularly may contribute to ill health and obesity. Skip the double cheeseburger and supersize fries. Cut out sundaes, cakes rich desserts and pies to regain control of your caloric intake. Avoiding these foods will achieve a lower LDL reading when your blood is retested.

    Animal Fats

    • Foods containing large amounts of animal fat such as bacon, salami, liver cheese, high-fat cheeses, cream and red meat should be cut from the diet to lower LDL. Animal fats are saturated fats and should be eaten in moderation or not at all to improve LDL levels.

    Pre-Packaged Foods

    • Refrain from buying pre-packaged foods. Not only are pre-packaged foods high in LDL and other fats including unhealthy trans fats, but they are also high in sodium. Avoid high-priced, high-sodium, high-fat convenience foods as they are a short-cut to obesity and elevated LDL levels.

    Dairy Butter

    • Butter and margarine are to be avoided while trying to reduce your LDL levels. Choose a "heart-smart" spread that does contain trans fats, if you simply can't live without butter or margarine.

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