Understanding the importance of managing cholesterol in your diet

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Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that comes from two sources: food and your body. It is found in foods from animal sources only. Cholesterol is not inherently “bad.” Your body needs it to build cells and make vitamins and other hormones. But too much cholesterol can pose a problem.

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Diabetes tends to lower "good" cholesterol levels and raise triglycerides and "bad" cholesterol levels, which increases the risk for heart disease and stroke. This condition is called diabetic dyslipidemia. Having diabetes puts you at a higher risk for developing high cholesterol.

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There are a few things you can do to lower the bad cholesterol in your body:

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Eat smart

Eat a healthy diet of vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, plant-based proteins, lean animal proteins like fish and seafood. Limit processed meats and control sugar, salt and cholesterol carefully.

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Move more

Physical activity helps improve cholesterol levels.

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Know your fats

The fats you eat can affect your cholesterol levels. Replace saturated fats with unsaturated fats. ​​Some tropical oils – such as palm oil, palm kernel oil and coconut oil – contain saturated fat that can increase bad cholesterol. These oils are often found in baked goods.

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No Nicotine

Smoking lowers good HDL cholesterol. It also raises your risk of heart disease.

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Take medication as directed

Your doctor may prescribe statins or other medications to control your cholesterol levels if needed.

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Useful tip

Have you tried listening to podcasts? The American Heart Association put together podcasts about cholesterol and heart health here:

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Source: The American Diabetes Association, The American Heart Association

Nothing in this article should be considered medical advice. Ask your doctor if you have any questions. In a case of medical emergency call 911.

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