Everyday Foods That Have Alarming Amounts of Bad Cholesterol

29. Premade Cookie Dough and Baking Mixes (Hydrogenated Shortening)

For quick baking, premade doughs and boxed mixes are convenient, but they are notorious for relying on inexpensive, solid fats like hydrogenated vegetable shortening or palm oil derivatives. These fats are used to provide texture and stability, but they are high in saturated fats and may still contain residual trans fats, which are particularly harmful because they simultaneously raise LDL and lower beneficial HDL cholesterol. To protect your heart, opt to bake from scratch using healthier fats like olive oil, avocado oil, or unsweetened applesauce as substitutes for shortening.

30. Tofu and Tempeh (When Deep-Fried at Restaurants)

Tofu and tempeh are celebrated plant-based protein sources naturally low in saturated fat and excellent for heart health. However, in many prepared dishes—especially in vegetarian Asian or takeout cuisine—they are often deep-fried before being tossed in sauce to achieve a crispy texture. This preparation instantly turns a heart-healthy food into a cholesterol risk, as the proteins absorb large amounts of unhealthy, often repeatedly used, saturated or trans-fat cooking oils. Ask how the tofu is prepared (opt for steamed, baked, or pan-fried at home) to keep this beneficial food on your heart-healthy menu.