Surprising Foods To Avoid If You Have High Cholesterol

35. Restaurant Thai Curries: Flavorful but Fat-Filled Favorites

Thai curries are beloved for their rich, spicy flavors and soul-satisfying comfort, but they’re often laden with ingredients that can sabotage your cholesterol levels. The main culprit? Coconut milk—a creamy base that’s naturally high in saturated fat. Just one cup of full-fat coconut milk contains over 40 grams of saturated fat, far exceeding the daily recommended limit. While coconut is a plant-based fat, studies show that its saturated fat can still raise LDL (bad) cholesterol, especially when consumed in large amounts. At home, consider using light coconut milk or diluting regular coconut milk with low-sodium vegetable broth to reduce the saturated fat content. You can also explore curry alternatives that use tomato bases or turmeric and lemongrass for flavor. When dining out, choose stir-fries or grilled protein dishes packed with vegetables, and ask for sauces on the side. That way, you can still savor the flavors of Thai cuisine without overloading your arteries.

36. Flavored Coffee Syrups: The Siren Song of Sweetened Coffee

That daily dose of sweet coffee flavoring might be a far more insidious cholesterol booster than you realize. While it's easy to dismiss a swirl of syrup as a harmless indulgence, many flavored varieties are surprisingly laden with sugar and a cocktail of artificial additives, both of which can wreak havoc on your triglyceride levels. Elevated triglycerides are a major risk factor for heart disease and often go hand-in-hand with high LDL cholesterol. Furthermore, some of the cheaper, mass-produced syrups use hydrogenated oils to achieve that creamy, decadent texture. These oils are a source of trans fats, which are widely recognized as some of the worst fats you can consume, known for their ability to raise "bad" LDL cholesterol while simultaneously lowering "good" HDL cholesterol. Instead of relying on these sugary and potentially trans-fat-laden syrups, explore healthier ways to flavor your coffee. Natural spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can add warmth and depth without the added risks. A splash of unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can provide creaminess with fewer calories and less impact on your cholesterol. By making these simple swaps, you can enjoy your coffee routine without compromising your heart health.