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Pritikin diet plan for lowering cholesterol

The Pritikin diet is particularly effective for lowering cholesterol levels, thanks to its low-fat, high-fiber food choices. This approach not only helps reduce bad cholesterol but also encourages a healthier lifestyle overall.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Oats
  • Avocado
  • Salmon
  • Almonds
  • Quinoa
  • Blueberries
  • Black beans
  • Spinach
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Lentils
  • Apples

  • Chia seeds
  • Broccoli
  • Oranges
  • Kale
  • Carrots
  • Walnuts
  • Strawberries
  • Barley
  • Bell peppers
  • Garlic
  • Brown rice

  • Chickpeas
  • Grapes
  • Mushrooms
  • Green beans
  • Raspberries
  • Tomatoes
  • Turkey breast
  • Cabbage
  • Greek yogurt
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Pineapple

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on July 2, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.

Diet plan overview

The Pritikin diet plan for lowering cholesterol includes a high intake of fiber-rich foods like oats, barley, and legumes, which are known to naturally reduce cholesterol levels. This diet emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods which help to decrease both total and LDL cholesterol.

It's a proactive approach to heart health that prioritizes nutritious eating and a balanced lifestyle.

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Foods to eat

  • Oats and Barley: Rich in soluble fiber, these grains can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
  • Legumes: Beans, peas, and lentils help lower cholesterol and provide plant-based protein.
  • Nuts: A handful of almonds, walnuts, or pecans can reduce cholesterol and promote heart health.
  • Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for the heart.
  • Fruits like Apples and Pears: These are high in pectin, a type of fiber that lowers cholesterol.
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(...) whole-food, plant-based diets are great for people who like to eat, since you can basically eat as much as you want without worrying about counting calories

Michael Greger, MD

Foods not to eat

  • High-Fat Dairy Products: Limit intake of whole milk, cream, and high-fat cheeses.
  • Trans Fats: Stay away from hydrogenated oils found in many baked goods and processed snacks.
  • Red Meat: Reduce consumption of fatty cuts and opt for leaner choices.
  • Fried Foods: Avoid deep-fried items that increase unhealthy fat intake.
  • Saturated Fats: Limit butter and other high-saturated fat products to help control cholesterol levels.

Main benefits

The Pritikin diet plan for lowering cholesterol significantly decreases LDL levels while boosting HDL cholesterol, contributing to a healthier cardiovascular system. It also reduces triglyceride levels, further protecting against heart disease.

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📊 71% of people think they could improve their eating habits (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

Focus on fiber-rich foods like beans and lentils, which are inexpensive and effective at managing cholesterol. These can be cooked in large batches and used in various meals throughout the week.

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Meal Plan for Pritikin Diet Plan for Lowering Cholesterol

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Oats with blueberries and Greek yogurt
  • Lunch: Quinoa salad with spinach, bell peppers, and chickpeas
  • Dinner: Grilled salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli
  • Snack: Apple and a handful of almonds

Calories: 1600  Fat: 45g  Carbs: 210g  Protein: 100g

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Chia seed pudding with strawberries and Greek yogurt
  • Lunch: Barley soup with carrots, onions, and garlic
  • Dinner: Baked turkey breast with quinoa and steamed Brussels sprouts
  • Snack: Orange and walnuts

Calories: 1650  Fat: 50g  Carbs: 215g  Protein: 105g

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Oats with blueberries and Greek yogurt
  • Lunch: Quinoa salad with spinach, bell peppers, and chickpeas
  • Dinner: Grilled salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli
  • Snack: Apple and a handful of almonds

Calories: 1600  Fat: 45g  Carbs: 210g  Protein: 100g

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Chia seed pudding with strawberries and Greek yogurt
  • Lunch: Barley soup with carrots, onions, and garlic
  • Dinner: Baked turkey breast with quinoa and steamed Brussels sprouts
  • Snack: Orange and walnuts

Calories: 1650  Fat: 50g  Carbs: 215g  Protein: 105g

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Oats with blueberries and Greek yogurt
  • Lunch: Quinoa salad with spinach, bell peppers, and chickpeas
  • Dinner: Grilled salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli
  • Snack: Apple and a handful of almonds

Calories: 1600  Fat: 45g  Carbs: 210g  Protein: 100g

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Chia seed pudding with strawberries and Greek yogurt
  • Lunch: Barley soup with carrots, onions, and garlic
  • Dinner: Baked turkey breast with quinoa and steamed Brussels sprouts
  • Snack: Orange and walnuts

Calories: 1650  Fat: 50g  Carbs: 215g  Protein: 105g

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Oats with blueberries and Greek yogurt
  • Lunch: Quinoa salad with spinach, bell peppers, and chickpeas
  • Dinner: Grilled salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli
  • Snack: Apple and a handful of almonds

Calories: 1600  Fat: 45g  Carbs: 210g  Protein: 100g

These nutritional values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.

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⚠️ Keep in Mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on July 2, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.