Listed below are examples of three types of fat in the diet. Saturated fats tend to increase blood cholesterol levels. Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats tend to decrease blood cholesterol levels when substituted for saturated fats. Choose polyunsaturated and monounsaturated over saturated fats. However, cholesterol is also present in foods of animal origin.
Dietary cholesterol tends to increase blood cholesterol levels.
The AHA and NCEP recommend an intake of less than 300 mg of cholesterol per day. Compare the following foods to find those high in cholesterol. Food Items Servings Chol. 590 Kidney 3 oz. 333 Heart 3 oz.