When it comes to bringing down your loved one’s high cholesterol levels, starting with her diet can be one of the easiest ways to start seeing some solid results. But that means avoiding some foods.

Foods High in Sugar and Salt

Foods that are high in both salt and sugar are excellent to avoid no matter what your loved one’s health is, honestly, but if she has high cholesterol, they’re really not good options. Read labels carefully on all of the foods that you buy. Some foods, like bread, can have a lot more salt or sugar than you realize. Start making label reading a habit so that you can start to find better options at the store.

Red Meats and Meats with Excess Fat

Red meat and fatty meat contribute to high cholesterol, unfortunately. If you find a cut of fatty meat at the store, the butcher can often trim that off for you and leave you with a leaner cut than you might have purchased. Start to make red meat something that your loved one has a little less often for best results.

Dairy with Full Fat

Dairy is a wonderful source of calcium, but if it’s full fat, it can also contribute to higher cholesterol levels. Instead, look for dairy products that have a lower fat content. Be careful, though, because sometimes lower fat dairy can be higher in salt or sugar than its full fat counterparts. You might want to consider making a switch to nut milks instead.

Fried Foods

Foods that are fried in fat and oil sure do taste great, but they’re not a solid choice for someone who has high cholesterol levels already. Opt for baked over fried as often as you possibly can. If your loved one can’t do without some of her favorite fried foods, at least make them something that your loved one has rarely rather than all the time.

Your loved one’s doctor may have other recommendations based on her specific health conditions and needs. if you need extra help with meal preparation, consider hiring senior care providers who can put together nutritious meals that fit your loved one’s dietary requirements.

If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in Mount Prospect, IL, please call the caring staff at A-Abiding Care today. Serving North and Northwest Chicago and the surrounding area for over 30 years. Call 847-698-1400.