8 Surprisingly Healthy Foods That Have High Cholesterol (And Why You Shouldn't Worry)

3. Shellfish (Shrimp, Crab, Lobster)

Shellfish lovers, rejoice—shrimp, crab, and lobster deliver both indulgence and nutrition. These ocean delights are naturally high in cholesterol, with a 3-ounce serving of shrimp containing around 160 milligrams. Decades of conventional wisdom suggested steering clear of shellfish if you were watching your cholesterol, but that advice turns out to be oversimplified. While shellfish are rich in cholesterol, they’re low in saturated fat—the real culprit when it comes to raising bad LDL cholesterol levels for most people.

4. Organ Meats (Liver, Kidneys)

Organ meats, like liver and kidneys, might make some people squeamish, but they are nutrient powerhouses with a unique profile. Liver in particular is loaded with cholesterol—a single 3-ounce slice can offer several hundred milligrams. Yet, it’s also one of the richest sources of vitamin A, several B vitamins (notably B12 and folate), iron, and selenium. Eating organ meats occasionally provides the body with nutrients that are sometimes hard to get elsewhere, contributing to energy, red blood cell health, and even mental clarity.