Diet plays an important role in maintaining healthy cholesterol numbers. Although the level of cholesterol in a person's blood is partly due to factors related to heredity, the foods one eats also affect cholesterol levels.

When doctors discuss cholesterol with their patients, they may refer to total cholesterol, bad cholesterol and good cholesterol. What do those terms mean? Total cholesterol is the combined number of cholesterol in the blood, and it should be below 200. Good cholesterol - that is, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) - ideally should be above 60. Bad cholesterol - low-density lipoprotein (LDL) - should be below 100, says the Cleveland Clinic. Certain foods may help people improve their cholesterol.

Oats and more

Individuals likely have heard that oatmeal is good for helping to reduce cholesterol numbers. Oatmeal has soluble fiber, which lowers LDL cholesterol by reducing the absorption of cholesterol into the bloodstream. Oat bran and other high-fiber grains also are good to enjoy.

Legumes and produce

Eggplant, okra, kidney beans, Brussels sprouts, pears, apples, and more also can be effective at lowering cholesterol levels. These foods tend to be lower in calories and saturated fats but high in soluble fiber.

Nuts

Almonds, walnuts and other foods high in omega-3 fatty acids can lower cholesterol levels by raising the levels of HDL cholesterol. Nuts like almonds also are high in vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that can keep the body healthy in a number of ways. Since nuts are high in calories, it is important to eat them in moderation.

Fatty fish

Eating fish rather than other meat-based protein sources helps reduce caloric intake. It also means the body gains the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids that lower LDL and triglycerides in the bloodstream.

Sterols and stanols

Sterols and stanols are components of plants that decrease the body's ability to absorb cholesterol from food, says Harvard Health. Companies add them to foods like margarine and granola bars as supplements. Roughly two grams of plant sterols a day can reduce LDL by 10%.

Avocados and olives

Both of these foods are good sources of fiber as well as monounsaturated fats, which can help improve HDL and lower LDL levels. Substitute olive and avocado oils for lard and butter when cooking to improve cholesterol levels.

A person who does not have the right amount of cholesterol may be instructed to alter his or her diet. Learning which foods might help is an important tool in managing cholesterol and triglyceride numbers.