What should people with high cholesterol avoid eating?
Sep 18, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Animal organs such as pork liver, chicken liver, and pork brain must be strictly avoided. These foods contain very high levels of cholesterol; consuming them directly increases blood cholesterol levels and exacerbates the burden on lipid metabolism, which is detrimental to disease management. Fried foods—such as fried chicken, french fries, and youtiao (fried dough sticks)—should also be avoided, as they contain large amounts of trans fatty acids and saturated fats.
People with high cholesterol need to strictly control their diet and medication use. They should generally avoid foods such as animal organs, fried foods, high-fat dairy products, alcoholic beverages, and high-sugar pastries, and use caution with medications like furosemide tablets and prednisone tablets. The details are as follows:
I. Foods
1. Animal Organs: Foods such as pork liver, chicken liver, and pork brain must be strictly avoided. These foods are extremely high in cholesterol; consuming them directly increases blood cholesterol levels and加重 lipid metabolism burden, which is detrimental to disease management.
2. Fried Foods: Fried items like fried chicken, french fries, and youtiao (fried dough sticks) should be avoided. They contain large amounts of trans fatty acids and saturated fats, which promote cholesterol synthesis and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
3. High-Fat Dairy Products: Intake of whole milk, cream, and butter should be limited. These products are high in saturated fat, which can disrupt cholesterol metabolism balance. It is recommended to replace them with low-fat or non-fat dairy alternatives.
4. Alcoholic Beverages: All types of alcohol—including white liquor, beer, and red wine—should be avoided. Alcohol interferes with liver function, impairs cholesterol breakdown and excretion, and may elevate triglyceride levels, worsening lipid abnormalities.
5. High-Sugar Pastries: Cakes, cookies, and desserts should be avoided. Excess added sugar can be converted into fat in the body, indirectly raising cholesterol levels, and may lead to obesity, further exacerbating lipid disorders.
II. Medications
1. Furosemide Tablets: A diuretic that, when used long-term, may affect lipid metabolism and lead to elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It should be used under medical supervision with regular monitoring of lipid profiles.
2. Prednisone Tablets: A glucocorticoid; prolonged use promotes fat synthesis and raises cholesterol levels. Must be taken strictly as prescribed—do not adjust dosage or extend treatment duration without medical guidance.
3. Compound Norethisterone Tablets: An oral contraceptive; certain components may affect cholesterol metabolism, leading to increased low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Consult a doctor to choose contraceptive methods with minimal impact on lipid levels.
4. Propranolol Tablets: A beta-blocker; some individuals may experience elevated cholesterol levels after use. Regular lipid testing is necessary during treatment, and therapy should be adjusted if needed.
5. Methylprednisolone Tablets: Long-term use can disrupt lipid metabolism and increase cholesterol levels. Dosage and duration must be carefully managed under medical supervision, with regular monitoring of lipid indicators.
In daily life, maintain a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Inform your doctor about elevated cholesterol before starting any new medication, and avoid self-medicating. Regularly monitor blood lipid levels; if abnormalities persist or symptoms develop, seek medical advice promptly to adjust dietary and treatment plans.
