'Healthy' Foods That Might Actually Worsen Your Cholesterol

19. Energy Bars: Convenient Fuel, Clogged Arteries

Marketed as clean fuel for active lifestyles, many energy bars are essentially candy bars in disguise. They’re often packed with added sugars, processed oils (like palm or soybean oil), and whey isolates that spike insulin and LDL cholesterol. Even “natural” bars may contain syrups or saturated fats that derail heart health. If you’re grabbing bars as meal replacements or pre-workout fuel, check the label: aim for bars with less than 6g of sugar, no trans fats, and whole food ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruit. Or better yet, make your own for full control over what’s fueling your heart.

20. Vegan Baked Goods: Plant-Based Doesn’t Mean Heart-Safe

Just because a muffin is vegan doesn’t mean it’s heart-healthy. Many plant-based baked goods rely on coconut oil (high in saturated fat) or palm shortening for structure, and often pack just as much sugar and refined flour as their traditional counterparts. These ingredients can quietly raise LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, especially when eaten regularly. The “vegan” label might sound virtuous, but it doesn’t cancel out the metabolic impact of nutrient-poor, ultra-processed ingredients. If you love a baked treat, choose recipes made with olive oil, almond flour, or whole grains—and keep portions in check. Plants alone aren’t enough.