What Is the Recommended Daily Intake of Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is needed for some body functions, including creating cell membranes and creating some hormones. But a high level of cholesterol can lead to a greater risk of coronary heart disease and heart attack. All foods from animal sources contain cholesterol, and cholesterol intake should be limited.

General Guideline

• The American Heart Association recommends consuming fewer than 300 milligrams of cholesterol per day.

Guideline for Those with Coronary Heart Disease

• If you have coronary heart disease, limit your cholesterol intake to fewer than 200 milligrams per day.

Current Average Intake

• The average American man consumes 337 milligrams of cholesterol per day; the average American woman consumes 217 milligrams.

Consumption Not Required

• It is not necessary to consume cholesterol. The body usually can produce all the cholesterol it needs. It produces an average of 1000 milligrams per day.

Healthy Food Choices

• To stay within the recommended cholesterol intake range, eat a maximum of no more than six ounces of lean poultry, meat or fish per day. Non-fat or low-fat dairy products are recommended.