Top 10 Low Fat Foods To Stock In Your Pantry If You Want To Lower Your Cholesterol

(LifeWire) - Do brownie mixes beckon you? Do creamed soups summon you to the pantry? Respond to the call by throwing out these unhealthy choices and stocking your shelves with these top 10 tempting pantry foods that can actually help lower your cholesterol.

1. Soy nuts.

Not only do they reduce the "bad cholesterol" (LDLs), but they also have fewer calories than dry roasted peanuts (128 versus 166), ounce for ounce.

2. Black beans, kidney beans, chick peas.

Add these cholesterol busters to pasta dishes and soups, and mash them into dips.

3. Salmon and tuna, water-packed in cans or sold in pouches.

These fish products provide omega-3 fatty acids, which raise your "good cholesterol" (HDLs) while lowering the "bad cholesterol" (LDLs). Make a fish salad with low-fat mayonnaise and celery, and pack in a tomato.

4. Array of spices.

Maximizing taste helps you stick with lowering your cholesterol intake. Stock up on Italian seasoning, cumin, rosemary and real vanilla to make low-fat soups, grilled lean meats and desserts that burst with flavor.

5.  Non-fat cooking spray.

These sprays are a must-have for sautéing lean meats, fish or chicken or for stir-frying veggies.

6. Olive oil.

Rich in monounsaturated fat, olive oil can help you lower your "bad cholesterol" by replacing saturated fat in your diet. Use it in cooking and in salad dressings, or mix it with whole wheat pasta.

7. Almonds.

Although walnuts, pecans, pistachios and other nuts can also lower cholesterol, the most conclusive research is for almonds. One serving (about 23 almonds) makes a great on-the-go snack.

8. Dried fruit.

Enjoy prunes, dates and raisins out of the box. Toss dried cranberries in a salad or in your breakfast cereal.

9. Oatmeal.

You've heard it for years, and it's true: This old-fashioned breakfast decreases the "bad cholesterol" and increases the "good." Add a banana for extra fiber.

10. Dark chocolate.

Everybody needs a treat. Make yours 70% or more cocoa, and you'll lower your "bad cholesterol" while raising the "good" with a half-ounce serving every day. Beware: More than that amount will just add on extra calories, which can pack on extra pounds.

Got your shopping list ready? After filling your pantry with heart-healthy foods you'll still face temptation -- but now, it's OK to give in.

Sources: