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Diet to Help Raise LDL Cholesterol

A healthy diet high in certain types of foods can help lower LDL cholesterol levels. On the other hand, there are plenty of foods out there that help raise LDL cholesterol levels. LDL cholesterol is typically considered "bad" cholesterol because it can contribute to clogging of the arteries, which can lead to a variety of heart issues and increase your risk of heart disease.

  1. LDL vs. HDL

    • High-density lipoprotein, or "good" cholesterol, can help prevent heart conditions like a heart attack. HDL removes excess cholesterol from the arteries, which is why it is generally considered "good." Low-density lipoprotein, or "bad" cholesterol, can lead to clogged arteries, which leads to a variety of negative health consequences. LDL levels can be raised by not eating enough foods that contain HDL cholesterol, like oatmeal, olive oil, and fish. Smoking and being obese also contribute to higher LDL levels.

    Saturated Fat

    • Diets that help raise LDL cholesterol are often high in saturated fats. Foods high in saturated fat include most red meat and pork, full fat dairy products like whole milk, cheese, butter, and cream, and many processed and packaged food products.

      According to the American Heart Association, only 7 percent of calories should come from saturated fats, which amounts to 140 calories per day for a 2,000 calorie diet. Eating some saturated fats is fine in moderation, but eating too much will help raise your LDL cholesterol.

    Trans Fat

    • Diets that help raise LDL cholesterol are often high in trans fats as well. Trans fats, also called hydrogenated oils, are created when food makers add hydrogen atoms to unsaturated fats to make them more stable for longer shelf life in processed foods.

      Foods that are often high in trans fat include french fries, margarine, donuts, fast food, cookies and cakes, and dinner rolls and biscuits.

      Trans fats increase the amount of LDL cholesterol and lower the amount of HDL cholesterol in your body, which can lead to increase in your chances of getting heart disease.

      According to the American Heart Association, fewer than 1 percent of your daily calories should come from trans fat. Trans fats may increase your LDL cholesterol levels more than any other type of fat.

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