Increase in cholesterol levels is a leading risk factor for heart disease, which is why lower cholesterol foods should be one of your key strategies to maintain a healthy cholesterol level.

The excess cholesterol in your bloodstream forms plaque in your artery walls which causes the arteries to become thicker and slows down the blood flow to the heart. When the cholesterol level become so high it can block the flow of blood, and heart disease or stroke may occur.

Foods that can protect your heart are those that are rich in fiber, especially soluble fiber, and that contain antioxidants. It is wise to consume more of a plant-based diet. Lower cholesterol foods that should be part of a low cholesterol diet include fish, fruits and vegetables. Almost all kinds of fish are considered low cholesterol foods. The oily variety of fish, such as salmon, tuna, etc is the best option.

Beans, leafy vegetables, onions, spinach, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, broccoli, and celery help in increasing good cholesterol and prevent the formation of plague in your arteries.

Lower cholesterol foods also include apples, berries, cranberries, and grapes because these help in preventing oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Whenever practical choose to eat the whole fruit together with the skin.

Through eating legumes such as beans and lentils, you will be able to decrease your cholesterol. Dry beans and peas are high in starch and fiber.

Chicken and turkey are poultry products that are lowest in saturated fat and cholesterol content amongst the animal products. The skin of these products contains most of the saturated fat. So it is advisable to remove it.

Egg whites do not have cholesterol and you can substitute them for the whole eggs in recipes. Or you can also use cholesterol-free egg substitute in place of whole eggs. The egg yolk contains cholesterol and is wise to avoid it or limit your consumption of it.

Examples of sweets that would be considered low cholesterol food include fresh fruit slices. Some low-fat brownies, cakes, cheese cakes, cupcakes, and various pastry products may be low in cholesterol depending on how they have been prepared. However it is preferable to eliminate these foods as much as possible from your diet. Perhaps indulge in them on special occasions only.

Changes to your diet and eating habits don't need to occur all at once. Often by gradually introducing changes it will make it more sustainable and you will be more likely to continue with your new choices.

To eat healthy is all about making smart choices. When it comes to lower cholesterol foods, you actually do have a lot of options. Understanding the facts and where cholesterol comes from together with understanding food labels are important steps in adding lower cholesterol foods into your diet.