Whats food got to do with high cholesterol? Everything!

Before a discussion of a specific diet ensues, be aware that your cholesterol level could also be genetic. So give up the notion you were somehow responsible, and get on with a healthy, low fat diet.

Prepare a menu you will enjoy. Keep in high in protein and low in fat, if possible. Allow a dessert on the weekends only, as a reward. Cut out snacks, especially at night.

Utilize portion control; along with smaller dinner plates. Perhaps instead of three meals a day; eat four or five meals a day, proportionally prepared, of course.

If you crave sweets, try non-fat chocolate. Or you can buy a can of fat free whipped cream and add a dollop to a cup of Jell-O.

Stay away from fast foods; Trans fat is a definite health hazard. Use extra virgin olive oil; fish with omega 3 oils; and lots of leafy green vegetables.

Experiment with different food groups. Have salads with roasted chicken; turkey burgers with lettuce and tomato; cereal with berries and skim milk; angel hair pasta with broccoli; beans and escarole; you get the idea!

It may be that most of the foods you consume are acceptable; except you probably eat too much of it. Examine your eating habits and try to come up with a better solution.

Your food doesn't have to be bland or mediocre; you can use herbs and spices to put zing into your meals, making them flavorful and delicious at the same time.

Exercise often; every other day if possible. This plays a vital role in reducing your cholesterol in combination with an appropriate diet regimen.

If you run out of ideas, check the hundreds of sites online that offer low fat recipes. Remember, variety is the spice of life.

When all else fails, try a diet plan such as NutriSystem. They have prepackaged foods utilizing portion control, and you won't have to worry taking time to prepare your breakfast, lunch or dinner menus. Just place your order with them, depending upon the type of diet which fits you best, and the meals are delivered to your door. How easy is that?

While it's true we need food to sustain us; it is also true we can eat sensible and well-portioned meals without going overboard.