Foods to Limit or Avoid for a Healthy Heart

But there are foods that are best avoided in order to achieve this goal. They are:

Fast Foods: It is easy to understand why these foods contribute to high cholesterol levels. They contain high levels of saturated fats and trans fats. Trans fats are the most outrageously bad since they contain hydrogenated oils. Moreover, they have been found to lower the HDL (good cholesterol) in the body.

Oils: While pure olive and canola are known to have substantial heart-healthy benefits, their counterparts – coconut and corn oil, are full of saturated fats. They are utilized in most fast food restaurants, as well as for home cooking. These are best avoided as they help increase the risk of heart disease.

Dairy: We know that saturated fats increase the LDL levels. Whole milk as well as other dairy products contain these saturated fats and have the same effect. In lieu of these products, it is highly recommended that 1% milk, skim milk, and low-fat dairy products are used to avoid high cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.

Meats: One of the most interesting statistics that came out during this economic depression is that of all the companies that are losing profits, a well-known fast food restaurant has increased its profit substantially. Meats such as hamburgers, bacon, and other packaged or deli meats contain high amounts of saturated fats. Substituting these meats with turkey burgers, turkey sausage, and other lean meat products can make all the difference in reducing cholesterol level and thus reducing risk to the heart.

Trans Fats: This is probably the most serious offender as regards cholesterol and heart disease. In fact, efforts are under way by manufacturers to eliminate this fat from their baked goods. However, not everyone has followed this lead and it is necessary, therefore, to check the label before you purchase particular products. These would include cookies, cakes, butter, and other food products that contain some form of fat content.