Surprising Foods To Avoid If You Have High Cholesterol

21. Instant Noodles: The Convenience Killer for Cholesterol

Instant noodles are a staple for those seeking a quick, affordable, and easy meal, but they come with a hidden cost to heart health. While they may seem harmless, most instant noodles are deep-fried before packaging, making them extremely high in saturated fats and trans fats—two major culprits in raising LDL (bad) cholesterol and increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. If you love noodles but want a healthier alternative, opt for whole-grain or brown rice noodles and pair them with homemade broth and fresh vegetables. You can also try zucchini noodles, konjac noodles, or buckwheat soba noodles for a low-carb, heart-friendly substitute. Adding lean proteins like tofu, chicken, or beans can also balance your meal and support healthy cholesterol levels while still enjoying a comforting bowl of noodles.

22. Flavored Yogurt: The Sugary Snack Disguised as Healthy

Yogurt is often viewed as a nutrient-rich, gut-friendly superfood, but flavored varieties can be a hidden source of cholesterol-raising ingredients. Many store-bought fruit-flavored yogurts contain as much sugar as a candy bar, with some brands packing in over 20 grams of sugar per serving—which is nearly as much as a can of soda! Even "low-fat" or "fat-free" yogurts are often worse for cholesterol because they compensate for the missing fat with added sugars and artificial thickeners that do more harm than good. Instead of grabbing flavored yogurt, choose plain Greek yogurt, which is higher in protein, lower in sugar, and beneficial for gut health. To add natural sweetness, mix in fresh fruit, cinnamon, a drizzle of honey, or a handful of nuts, creating a heart-healthy snack without the cholesterol-raising drawbacks.