'Healthy' Foods That Might Actually Worsen Your Cholesterol

15. Nut Butters, Healthy Fat Until It Isn’t

Nut butters—especially almond or peanut—are rich in heart-healthy fats, but not all jars are created equal. Many commercial spreads are blended with hydrogenated oils and added sugars to improve texture and shelf life, which can drive up LDL cholesterol. Even "natural" versions can be calorie-dense, leading to overconsumption and unintended weight gain—another cholesterol trigger. Always read the label: the best nut butter should list only nuts (and maybe a pinch of salt). Stick to moderate servings—1 to 2 tablespoons—and pair it with fiber-rich foods like apple slices or whole grain toast to keep both taste and cholesterol in check.

16. Smoothie Bowls, Trendy But Trouble in a Bowl

Smoothie bowls are Instagram-worthy and often packed with fruits, seeds, and “superfoods.” But beneath the toppings, they can hide cholesterol-raising pitfalls. Many bowls include sugary yogurt, high-glycemic fruits, sweetened nut milks, and generous scoops of nut butters—resulting in a calorie and sugar bomb that spikes triglycerides and LDL. Add crunchy granola (often high in saturated fats and sugar), and your heart-healthy intentions may backfire. To build a better bowl, start with leafy greens or unsweetened nut milk, limit sugary toppings, and add fiber with chia seeds or flax. The right smoothie bowl should energize—not compromise—your heart health.