High-Cholesterol Foods That Might Not Be as Bad as You Think

63. Chicken Hearts: The CoQ10 Cardio-Protector

Often relegated to the "discard" pile or pet food aisle, chicken hearts are a nutritional powerhouse that ironically supports the very organ they come from. While they contain a significant amount of dietary cholesterol, they are one of the richest natural sources of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a vital antioxidant used by the body for cell growth and maintenance. Research suggests CoQ10 can actually improve heart health and regulate blood pressure, counterbalancing concerns about the cholesterol content. Furthermore, unlike the strong mineral taste of liver or kidney, chicken hearts taste like rich, dark thigh meat. Grilled or pan-seared, they offer an accessible, sustainable, and delicious way to boost your cardiovascular defense system.

64. Balaena Oil: The Alkylglycerol-Rich Exception

Balaena oil, derived from marine sources like certain shark or whale livers, is a high-cholesterol fat that is nevertheless prized for its potent immune and heart benefits, particularly in traditional Nordic and Asian diets. Its value lies not in the cholesterol itself, but in its high concentration of alkylglycerols (AKGs). These unique lipid molecules are naturally found in human breast milk and bone marrow, where they are critical for immune system support and the production of white blood cells. Studies suggest AKGs may possess strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially mitigating the oxidation of LDL cholesterol—a key step in plaque formation. By providing these highly bioactive molecules, Balaena oil’s overall nutritional action is skewed toward cardiovascular protection and immune resilience, making it a compelling case where the nutrient profile overrides the simple presence of cholesterol.