Cholesterol is a steroid lipid (fat) present in the blood, necessary for the proper functioning of cell membranes and the production of vitamin D and certain hormones.

Cholesterol deficiency is rare, as our bodies manufacture the cholesterol we need. High cholesterol levels on the other hand, increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and other health problems.

When we consume foods rich in cholesterol, our bodies tend to reduce the production of cholesterol in response, in an attempt to keep levels stable. A diet high in total fat, saturated fat, processed trans fats and low in fibre, along with being overweight, lack of exercise, smoking and high alcohol consumption is believed to lead to high cholesterol. There are also certain genes that cause people to have raised cholesterol.

Consumption of cholesterol in foods is therefore not the main factor, but there may be certain groups of people who are sensitive to dietary cholesterol. (2)

High cholesterol foods include fast foods, liver, fatty meats, canned shrimp, desserts, eggs, whipped cream, bacon, cheese, and butter. The current daily value (DV) for cholesterol is 300mg.

Below is a list of high cholesterol foods. To lower your cholesterol, read the article on cholesterol lowering foods.