Trying to improve your cholesterol levels? Choosing healthy snacks for high cholesterol can make a big difference. Let’s focus on simple, heart-smart swaps that actually help.
What to Include:
- Soluble fiber (helps remove cholesterol from the body)
- Healthy fats (like those in nuts and seeds)
- Antioxidant-rich foods
- Low saturated fat
- Follow the Portfolio diet (1)
Healthy Snacks For High Cholesterol
1. Apple Slices with Almond Butter
Apples contain soluble fiber (pectin), and almond butter adds healthy unsaturated fats.
2. Banana Ricotta Muffins
These muffins are made with oats, banana, and ricotta for a boost of fiber, potassium, and protein, all great for heart health.
3. Avocado on Whole-Grain Crackers
Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats that help lower LDL levels. You can also try this avocado and peanut butter toast.
4. Roasted Chickpeas
Crunchy, fiber packed, and satisfying. Choose a low-sodium (like these from PRANA) or DIY version (like this roasted black bean recipe).
5. Chia Pudding with Berries
Fiber and omega 3s from chia, plus antioxidants from berries, a win win. Or try this no sugar added chia jam recipe as an alternative.
6. Sliced Pear with Walnuts
Both are high in fiber and heart healthy fats.
7. Air-Popped Popcorn with Olive Oil & Herbs
Whole grain + polyphenols from extra virgin olive oil. Avoid butter and salt.
Snack Smarter Tips:
- Aim for at least 5 grams of fiber per snack.
- Use healthy unsaturated fats to replace saturated ones (such as olive oil to replace butter).
- Aim for snacks that are as close to their natural form as possible; think fruits, veggies, nuts, or seeds.
- Choose foods from this list of 39 foods to unclog arteries
Want cholesterol-lowering meals too? Follow me on Instagram @the.heart.dietitian for more ideas and recipes.
