If you have been diagnosed with high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia), you should definitely have a talk with Dr. Weisz about your diet—especially about eating meat.

You will be advised that there are good, lean choices you can make. For example, you can consider chicken or turkey breasts without skin; pork tenderloin; or beef round, sirloin, or tenderloin. Avoid highly processed meats such as bacon, ham, lunchmeat, etc.

Always check the nutrition label on the package to determine the proper portion size. Also, limit your serving size according to the doctor’s instructions. Or follow the TLC diet recommendations of no more than 5 ounces total per day of lean meat, poultry, or fish.

The American Heart Association recommends eating fish with omega-3 fatty acids at least twice a week. Doing so can lower your risk of dying from coronary artery disease. Fish highest in omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna, and herring.

Other healthy protein alternatives include dried beans and peas, nuts and seeds, low-fat dairy products, and soy products. Protein does not have to come from meat.

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Source: Debra Fulghum Bruce, PhD, WebMD, August 20, 2022