All the cholesterol that you need is produced by your body. You do not need to consume it.

 

• The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends keeping dietary cholesterol as low as possible while maintaining a healthy diet with the upper limit at 300mg per day. 

• With that said, dietary cholesterol  comes from animal products, which include meat and animal derivatives like dairy. 

• If you choose to consume animal products, be cognizant of the cholesterol content.

 

High = 20% or more on nutrition facts.

Low = 5% or less

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• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is carried from your liver to your arteries and other body tissues. It is often called "bad cholesterol" because at high levels it builds up in your blood vessels increasing your risk for cardiovascular disease.

• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is carried from your blood vessels and body tissues back to your liver. Once in your live, it is broken down then removed. It is often called "good cholesterol" because at high levels it can prevent cholesterol buildup in your blood vessels and decrease your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

• Great news is that all the fruit, vegetables and whole grains that you are eating are not a source of dietary cholesterol. Even more reason to eat up!