Low Cholesterol Foods for Summer | Healthy Choices at Gatherings

Taking care of your heart starts with understanding the factors that affect it every day. Cholesterol is one of those factors that can impact your health over time without symptoms. By learning how cholesterol affects your body, keeping up with routine screenings and making smart lifestyle choices, you can lower your risk of heart-related complications. Below, you’ll find helpful information about cholesterol awareness along with heart-healthy meal ideas to support better overall wellness.

These simple tips can help transform your summer into a season full of outdoor fun and meaningful moments, whether you’re hosting backyard BBQs, enjoying picnics in the park, celebrating graduation parties or gathering. With longer days, warmer weather and plenty of opportunities to be active, summer naturally invites you to spend more time outside and reconnect with both nature and the people who matter most.

How to Make Healthy Choices

• Plan ahead: Try not to skip meals to “save” calories for the event, just be aware of making better choices before and after the event.
• Make good choices: Offer to bring a green salad or fruit salad to share. Review the food table and then choose more lean meats, grilled veggies, fruit and salads that have oil-based dressings.
• Try just a taste: A spoonful of those foods that you usually don’t eat can fit into your plan. Just be sure to enjoy every bite!
• Make water your main drink: Sparkling or plain water can be refreshing with a wedge of lemon, lime or orange. Other drinks are not as hydrating and can be high in calories. If you choose to drink alcohol, practice moderation.
• Keep moving: Join in on the volleyball or softball game, walk, bike, swim or hike. 

It’s also the perfect time to refocus on your health and wellness goals. The abundance of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables makes it easier than ever to prepare meals that are both delicious and nutritious. By making mindful choices and incorporating a variety of low-cholesterol foods into your diet, you can support your heart health without feeling restricted or missing out on flavor.

Try these Summertime Favorites

Good Morning Power Parfait | American Diabetes Association

Black Bean and Corn Salad | American Diabetes Association

Grilled Chicken Caesar Kabobs | American Diabetes Association

Maintaining your health goals during the summer doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. With a few simple strategies, like choosing lean proteins, grilling instead of frying, staying hydrated, and balancing indulgent treats with wholesome options, you can enjoy all your favorite seasonal activities while still taking care of your heart. With a little planning and creativity, summer can be both fun and fulfilling, helping you build habits that last through every season.

*SummaCare offers Health Coaching for health plan members. Please refer to your Summary of Benefits to confirm eligibility.