Cholesterol is essential for proper metabolic functioning. However, when you have high cholesterol, it can be a cause of concern. Excessive cholesterol has been known to lead to an increase in the risk of cardiac problems and the probability of stroke. The risks are greater in certain age groups as compared to others. But the problem is serious in all age groups nonetheless and should be treated as such. Here is a list of foods to avoid when dealing with high cholesterol in your bloodstreams:

• Red Meat
  Beef, pork, lamb are all considered meat and are rich sources of saturated fats as compared to other meats. Continued consumption of red meat can cause an elevation in blood cholesterol levels and can even worsen existing heart conditions. Instead of reaching for that serving of red meat, next time, try switching it with healthier veg and non-veg protein sources.
• Ice Creams
  Unfortunately, the sweet treat you love so much, does not love you back enough. Sadly, the double scooped indulgence is a favorite of your nemesis, cholesterol, which makes it not such a good treat, after all. The amount of cholesterol this frozen sweet packs alone can leave your heart racing, making it advisable for you to treat yourself with something your heart agrees with.
• French Fries
  An all-time favorite, french fries are also cholesterol’s favorite friend. The common American snack is made in hydrogenated oils, which makes them a power bank of cholesterol. Sadly, as much as you love to binge on these fries, their high trans fats content makes them a permanent member of the foods to avoid with high cholesterol.
• Shellfish
  Shellfish is generally considered healthy, but when it comes to people suffering from high blood cholesterol, it is a definitive no go. Cardiac patients tend to be advised to avoid consumption of shellfish on the grounds of its high cholesterol content, even without the butter it is usually consumed with.
• Organ Meat
  Organ meat, such as liver and kidney, are highly nutritious and can prove to be beneficial for many. But for cholesterol patients, they can prove to be risky as the foods are known to have one of the highest concentrations of cholesterol. The liver is the body’s primary source of cholesterol and makes for a highly fatty, cholesterol-rich item. This will only lead to an increase in the stored reserves, which needs to be decreased instead.
• Mac and Cheese
  Another favorite of the masses, Mac and Cheese, is also a part of the group of foods to avoid with high cholesterol. The problem with this meal is that all the ingredients of this dish rank high on the cholesterol content scale. Right from the basics of milk, butter, and cheese, all the way to the bacon toppings. So, if you are smart enough, you will know to stop before helping yourself to the second and third servings.