Eating right helps to lower your cholesterol levels thereby helping you to stay fit and prevent heart disorders. A variety of food groups are low in fat and salt and help to improve your health.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are a good source of natural sugar and fiber. Eating 5 to 6 servings daily will do you a world of good. Melons, mangoes, bananas are an excellent food option and can be eaten at snack time or replace desserts.

Whole grain cereal like pasta and rice should comprise of a few meals for the day. Start of your day with a bowl of cereal and milk along with a fresh fruit juice or just a fruit would be fine.

Include dairy in your meals. Milk, cheese, buttermilk, yogurt and milk desserts are an excellent meal option. Starting and ending your day with a glass of milk will keep you fit. Always choose non fat options though as any thing other than that would beat the purpose.

Beans and peas help to add protein to your body. Fish is a good option as well. Six ounces of beans, peas or fish sautéed or boiled will be delicious. Added benefit is that there is no fat as the preparation does not need any oil to be added.

If lowering your cholesterol is your aim then you must use olive oil for cooking. It is absorbed well by the body and is a healthy source of fats. Saturated fats are in oils like coconut and palm.

Eat white meats as far as possible but avoid processed version of the food.

What you must avoid :

Whole fat diary products like whole milk, high fat cheese, cream, yogurt and ice creams must be avoided. Avoid eating red meats; especially organs like liver, heart, kidney and brain. Reduce your intake of all processed meats like salami, ham, pastrami sausages and frankfurters.