Hyperlipidemia Dietary “Cheat Sheet”

From a dietary standpoint, The American Heart Association has provided some great recommendations that focus on limiting saturated fats to less than 6% of daily calories, and trying to eliminate trans fats completely.

⭐ Foods to Increase (Heart-Healthy Choices)

These foods help lower LDL (bad cholesterol), decrease inflammation, and support overall cardiovascular health.

Fruits & Vegetables

High in fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients:

Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
Apples, pears
Citrus fruit (oranges, grapefruit)
Leafy greens (spinach, kale, collard greens)
Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts)
Sweet potatoes
Peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes

Whole Grains & High-Fiber Foods

Fiber helps lower LDL cholesterol:

Oats / oatmeal
Barley
Brown rice
Quinoa
Whole grain bread, pasta, crackers
Whole wheat tortillas
Popcorn (air-popped)
Beans, lentils, chickpeas

Lean Proteins

Skinless poultry
Eggs (in moderation; egg whites unlimited)
Legumes (beans, peas, lentils)
Tofu, tempeh

Fatty Fish (Omega-3 Rich)

Helps lower triglycerides:

Salmon
Mackerel
Sardines
Herring
Trout
Albacore tuna

Healthy Fats

Unsaturated fats support HDL and lower LDL:

Olive oil, avocado oil
Avocados
Nuts: almonds, walnuts, cashews, pistachios
Seeds: chia, flaxseed, hemp seeds

Low-Fat Dairy

Reduced-fat milk
Low-fat yogurt
Low-fat cheese
Plant-based milks (unsweetened)

❗ Foods to Limit/Avoid (Raise LDL, Triglycerides, or Inflammation)

High-Saturated-Fat Meats

Beef (especially fatty cuts)
Pork (sausage, bacon)
Lamb
Hot dogs
Pepperoni, salami
Lunch meats (unless labeled low-fat/lean)

Full-Fat Dairy Products

Whole milk
Full-fat cheese
Heavy cream
Ice cream
Butter (use sparingly)

Fried Foods

Fried chicken
Fried fish
French fries
Fried appetizers (mozzarella sticks, onion rings)

Refined Carbohydrates & Sugary Foods

Increase triglycerides:

White bread, white rice
Pastries, donuts
Cakes, cupcakes, cookies
Candy
Sugary breakfast cereals
Sweetened yogurt
Regular soda and sugary drinks
Sweet tea

Trans Fats (avoid completely)

Often listed as partially hydrogenated oils:

Packaged baked goods
Microwave popcorn
Non-dairy coffee creamers
Margarine sticks
Some frozen meals
Fast food fried items

High-Fat Snacks

Potato chips
Cheese puffs
Buttered popcorn
Full-fat crackers

High-Sodium, Processed Foods

Often worsen lipid levels and blood pressure:

Frozen convenience meals
Canned soups (unless low-sodium)
Processed snacks
Restaurant foods

Alcohol

Raises triglycerides and can worsen liver fat:

Limit or avoid—especially if triglycerides are elevated

⭐ BONUS: Quick “Hyperlipidemia-Friendly” Meal Ideas

Breakfast

Oatmeal with berries and flaxseed
Greek yogurt (low-fat) with fruit and almonds
Veggie omelet with whole grain toast

Lunch

Lentil soup and salad with olive oil dressing
Grilled chicken wrap (whole wheat) with vegetables
Salmon salad with avocado

Dinner

Baked salmon with broccoli and quinoa
Stir-fried tofu and vegetables
Turkey chili with beans

Sources (And Helpful Resources):

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

The dietary information provided in this resource is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual nutrition needs vary based on medical history, medications, allergies, and overall health status.

Before making any changes to your diet, trying new foods, modifying portion sizes, or following any nutrition recommendations, please consult your physician, registered dietitian, or other qualified healthcare provider. If you have diabetes, kidney disease, gastrointestinal conditions, food intolerances, or other chronic health concerns, discussing dietary changes with your healthcare team is especially important.

This handout is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.