What foods will help improve cholesterol scores?

What type of foods help to raise HDL (good) cholesterol? Could you send me a list of foods for a low fat, low cholesterol diet? My husband just had 3 stents put in. He's only 45 and I need to know what kind of meals to cook him.

The Health meets Food Team Says...

We are really sorry about your husband's health issues and are hoping that he is doing better.

The main foods that might have a positive effect on HDL (good) cholesterol are those that are high in unsaturated fats, especially monounsaturated fats like Omega 3 fats. You can find these in fatty fish like salmon, tuna, halibut and cod. Many nuts and seeds are also very high in monounsaturated fats.  Increasing foods that are high in fiber can make a big difference also including vegetables, legumes (beans), fruits, nuts and whole grains.

There is no specific list of foods, but there is a style of eating that can help. By moving more toward a Mediterranean style diet that limits the amount of red meats while increasing fish, vegetables, whole grains, and "good fats," research shows that this can lead to major improvements in one's health.

You can find out more in our What is a Mediterranean Diet? section. All of the recipes on the website are designed around this style of diet.

Reviewed 08/21/2022