Surprising Foods To Avoid If You Have High Cholesterol

17. Granola and Protein Bars: The Sugar-Laden Energy Trap

Granola and protein bars are often marketed as quick, nutritious snacks, perfect for fueling an active lifestyle. But many of these so-called "health foods" are actually packed with added sugars, unhealthy fats, and processed ingredients that can spike cholesterol levels. While they may provide a temporary energy boost, they often do more harm than good when consumed regularly. One major issue is added sugar. Many granola bars contain as much sugar as a candy bar, which can lead to increased triglyceride levels and insulin resistance—two factors that contribute to high cholesterol. Even bars labeled as "low sugar" often use artificial sweeteners or syrups that can still impact metabolic health.

18. Coffee Creamers: The Silent Cholesterol Booster

For many, coffee is a daily ritual—but that splash of store-bought creamer could be quietly raising cholesterol levels. Many non-dairy creamers contain hydrogenated oils, a source of trans fats, which are widely known for raising LDL (bad) cholesterol and lowering HDL (good) cholesterol. Even when labeled "trans fat-free," they can still contain small amounts of these harmful fats, which add up over time. But it's not just trans fats that are a concern—added sugars and artificial flavorings also make many coffee creamers a poor choice for heart health. Flavored creamers often contain corn syrup solids and artificial sweeteners, which contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and increased triglycerides—all factors that can negatively impact cholesterol.