Cholesterol Level in Food

What we eat may influence our blood's cholesterol level. In addition to lowering saturated fat in our diet, we must also lower cholesterol intake.

Foods of Animal Origins

You can find cholesterol in foods that come from animals. Plants do not make cholesterol.

Eggs

One egg has 213 mg of cholesterol, according to the American Heart Association. That's 71 percent of the recommended cholesterol intake for health adults, which is 300 mg per day.

Seafood

Certain seafood like shrimp and lobster contain high amounts of cholesterol. Four large shrimp contain 43 mg of cholesterol. Three ounces of lobster contain 61 mg of cholesterol.

Butter

Be careful with cooking fats. One tablespoon of butter holds 31 mg of cholesterol.

Other Dairy Products

Like butter, other full fat dairy products contain significant amounts of cholesterol. One cup of whole milk has 24 mg of cholesterol. And, one container (8 oz.) of whole milk yogurt is packed with 30 mg of cholesterol.

References

• Cholesterol from Food
• Common Misconceptions About Cholesterol
• Disease, Condition, & Injury Fact Sheets | NYU Langone Medical Center

Resources

• Cholesterol
• Nutrient database