The 7 Best Foods to Buy at Costco for High Cholesterol

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The 7 Best Foods to Buy at Costco for High Cholesterol

How to Choose Foods for Healthy Cholesterol

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Whether you have high cholesterol or just want to prevent it, the American Heart Association recommends eating lots of fiber-rich foods and replacing saturated fat with beneficial unsaturated fats.[3]

Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains is an excellent way to add more fiber to your day. Nuts and seeds are also a great source of fiber and provide plant-based protein and heart-healthy unsaturated fats.

7 Foods to Buy at Costco If You Have High Cholesterol

1. Kirkland Signature Extra Fancy Unsalted Mixed Nuts

Nuts are one of the best foods for cholesterol and heart health. Studies show that higher nut consumption is linked with reduced risk for cardiovascular disease.[4] So, it’s no surprise that the AHA recommends nuts as part of a heart-friendly eating plan.[5] Eating just 56 grams (about 2 ounces) of nuts per day has been shown to significantly lower total cholesterol and unfavorable LDL cholesterol.[4]

2. Kirkland Signature Whole Grain Rolled Oats

Oats are our No. 1 favorite food for lowering cholesterol. They contain a special type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which whisks cholesterol building blocks out of your body when you poop. That, in turn, impairs your body’s ability to synthesize cholesterol.[6] Each ½-cup serving packs 5 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber per serving.

3. Goya Black Beans

Pulses, including black beans, are packed with cholesterol-lowering soluble fiber. But that’s just the beginning. Regularly eating pulses, like beans, has also been shown to reduce blood pressure, triglycerides and inflammation.[7, 8] They contain 6 grams of fiber and 8 grams of lean plant protein, yet no saturated fat. Plus, they require no cooking, so they’re a lifesaver on busy weeknights.

4. Kirkland Signature Frozen Farmed Atlantic Salmon

The AHA recommends eating fatty fish like salmon twice per week for its beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.[9] These heart-supporting unsaturated fats have been shown to help lower inflammation and cholesterol.[10] Each fillet is individually packaged, so all you have to do is thaw and cook them.

5. Imperial Garden Organic Edamame

A large body of research finds that soy products like edamame can help lower cholesterol, thanks to their heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats and powerful plant compounds called isoflavones. It’s so effective that eating 25 grams of soy protein per day is linked with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease.[11] Each serving has 4 grams of fiber and 12 grams of plant protein.

6. Pom Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranates are full of fiber and powerful antioxidants called polyphenols. Studies show that consuming pomegranates may reduce undesirable LDL cholesterol and increase beneficial HDL cholesterol. Plus, they’ve been shown to lower blood pressure.[12] Grab a bottle (or two!) of Pom Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice to drink with breakfast or to use in a delicious mocktail to end the day.

7. Kirkland Signature Organic Chunky Guacamole

Avocados are rich in fiber, unsaturated fat and antioxidants. So, they’re a tasty way to lower your heart disease risk.[13] They’re so helpful that one study found that eating an avocado daily helped lower LDL and total cholesterol.[14] Each prepackaged cup boasts 4 grams of fiber and the convenience of being an avocado lover on-the-go.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re trying to lower your cholesterol or just want to be proactive, Costco has a bunch of foods that can help. From mixed nuts to prepared guacamole to black beans and more, you’ll find foods full of heart-healthy antioxidants, fiber and unsaturated fats. So, next time you’re at Costco, bring a list of these foods with you to stock up. They’re easy to incorporate throughout the day, from breakfast to your evening snack!

FAQs

Q: Why is it important to have a healthy diet to lower cholesterol?
A: Eating a healthy diet, such as the one suggested above, can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering cholesterol and increasing the intake of healthy fats, fiber, and plant-based protein.

Q: What are some specific nutrients that can help lower cholesterol?
A: Foods that are high in soluble fiber, such as oatmeal, barley, nuts, and seeds, as well as foods that are low in saturated fat, like avocado, can help lower cholesterol.

Q: Why is it important to drink plenty of water while taking medication to lower cholesterol?
A: Drinking plenty of water while taking cholesterol medication can help to avoid any potential side effects of dehydration and ensure that your medication is working effectively to lower your cholesterol levels.