Cholesterol is needed for some body functions, including creating cell membranes and creating some hormones. But a high level of cholesterol can lead to a greater risk of coronary heart disease and heart attack. All foods from animal sources contain cholesterol, and cholesterol intake should be limited.
General Guideline
The American Heart Association recommends consuming fewer than 300 milligrams of cholesterol per day.
Guideline for Those with Coronary Heart Disease
If you have coronary heart disease, limit your cholesterol intake to fewer than 200 milligrams per day.
Current Average Intake
The average American man consumes 337 milligrams of cholesterol per day; the average American woman consumes 217 milligrams.
Consumption Not Required
It is not necessary to consume cholesterol. The body usually can produce all the cholesterol it needs. It produces an average of 1000 milligrams per day.
Healthy Food Choices
To stay within the recommended cholesterol intake range, eat a maximum of no more than six ounces of lean poultry, meat or fish per day. Non-fat or low-fat dairy products are recommended.
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