A List of Low-Fat & Low-Cholesterol Foods

A heart healthy diet is one that is low in fat and cholesterol, according to the National Heart Blood and Lung Institute. The low-fat, low-cholesterol diet can decrease blood cholesterol levels and decrease the risk for heart disease and is appropriate for all members of the family over the age of two.

Grains

A number of foods in the grain group are low in fat and cholesterol. Whole grain choices, such as whole wheat, brown rice and whole oats, contain fiber. Foods high in soluble fiber lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, according to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. The University of Massachusetts Medical Center suggests choosing grains with two or more grams of fiber per serving, such as whole wheat bread, bagels, English muffins and pasta. Other low-fat, low-cholesterol grain choices include tortillas, whole grain cereals, soda crackers, low-fat animal crackers, Melba toast and rice cakes. Baked goods prepared with egg substitutes and fat free milk such as pancakes, waffles and muffins, can also be included.

Fruits and Vegetables

Low-fat, low-cholesterol fruits include all fresh, frozen, dried, unsweetened canned fruits and juices. Low-fat, low-cholesterol vegetables include all fresh, frozen and low-sodium canned varieties. Fruits and vegetables also contain fiber and help lower blood cholesterol levels.

Meats and Eggs

Meats can be a source of fat and cholesterol in the diet. Low-fat, low-cholesterol beef, pork and lamb choices include loin, round and select grade. Poultry without the skin is low in fat and cholesterol. All fish prepared without butter can be consumed on the low-fat, low-cholesterol diet, according to the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. Egg whites and egg substitutes are also low in fat and cholesterol. When choosing lunch meats, people should look for 95 percent lean on the food label.

Dairy Foods

Low-fat and low cholesterol dairy foods include fat-free milk, 1 percent milk, fat-free and low-fat yogurt, 1 percent and fat-free cottage cheese, low-fat and nonfat ice cream and frozen yogurt. Low-fat cheeses should contain less than 3 grams of fat per serving, according to the University of Massachusetts Medical Center.