21 Low-Cholesterol Snacks for a Heart-Healthy Diet

1. Fresh Veggie Sticks with Hummus

Crunchy vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and celery make an excellent base for a heart-healthy snack. When paired with hummus—a creamy, plant-based dip made from chickpeas—this combination provides a satisfying dose of fiber and nutrients without the cholesterol found in processed chips.

Unlike salty, fried snacks, fresh veggies and hummus deliver healthy fats and keep you feeling full longer. The American Heart Association recommends snacks like these for supporting healthy cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.

2. Apple Slices with Almond Butter

Fresh apple slices paired with unsweetened almond butter create a naturally sweet, crunchy snack that’s both heart-healthy and satisfying. Apples provide fiber and essential vitamins, while almond butter contributes healthy monounsaturated fats and protein, all without the cholesterol found in many processed spreads.

Compared to peanut butter, almond butter generally contains less saturated fat, making it a smarter choice for those focused on cholesterol management. According to Harvard Health, nut butters like almond butter are recommended for their positive impact on heart health and cholesterol levels.

3. Air-Popped Popcorn

Air-popped popcorn is a wholesome, whole-grain snack that’s naturally low in cholesterol and calories, making it a heart-smart choice when enjoyed plain. Its high fiber content supports digestive health and can help curb hunger between meals.

Unlike commercially flavored or buttered popcorn, which often contains added fats and sodium, air-popped popcorn delivers crunch and satisfaction without the guilt. For optimal heart health, skip the butter and opt for simple seasonings. The Mayo Clinic recommends air-popped popcorn as a healthy snack option for cholesterol-conscious eaters.

4. Greek Yogurt with Berries

Low-fat Greek yogurt topped with fresh berries is a creamy, nutrient-rich snack that supports heart health. Greek yogurt offers more protein than regular yogurt, along with beneficial probiotics for gut health, while being lower in saturated fat when you choose reduced-fat or nonfat varieties.

Adding antioxidant-rich berries such as blueberries or strawberries enhances flavor and nutrition without adding cholesterol. To maximize heart benefits, select Greek yogurt without added sugar. For more on the differences and health benefits of yogurt types, visit the Cleveland Clinic.

5. Roasted Chickpeas

Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy and satisfying snack packed with fiber and plant-based protein, making them an excellent cholesterol-free alternative to traditional chips. Easily customizable, you can season them with spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cumin for a burst of flavor without excess fat or sodium.

Their high fiber content helps support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and promoting fullness. The American Heart Association highlights the heart-healthy benefits of beans and legumes, making roasted chickpeas a smart snack choice.

6. Edamame

Steamed edamame, or fresh green soybeans, offer a protein-rich, fiber-packed snack that contains no cholesterol, making them a heart-friendly alternative to traditional salted nuts. Edamame delivers all the essential amino acids and is naturally low in saturated fat, helping to lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol when included regularly in your diet.

Unlike many packaged nuts, which can be high in sodium and unhealthy fats, edamame provides plant-based nutrients without the added drawbacks. Learn more about the nutritional benefits of edamame from the USDA.

7. Oatmeal Energy Bites

Homemade oatmeal energy bites combine rolled oats, flaxseeds, and a hint of honey for a naturally sweet, nutrient-dense snack. Oats provide soluble fiber, which is known to help lower cholesterol by reducing its absorption in the bloodstream.

Flaxseeds add heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and extra fiber. Unlike many store-bought granola bars, these bites are free of unhealthy oils and excess sugars, making them a wholesome, cholesterol-conscious choice. For more on oats and their cholesterol-lowering effects, visit the National Lipid Association.

8. Rice Cakes with Avocado

Whole-grain rice cakes topped with mashed avocado offer a crunchy and creamy snack that’s both satisfying and heart-healthy. Avocado delivers monounsaturated fats and fiber, supporting cholesterol management without adding any cholesterol to your diet.

This snack is a nutritious alternative to toast with butter, which contains saturated fats and cholesterol. Rice cakes provide a light, whole-grain base, while avocado’s richness keeps you full and energized. The American Heart Association recommends avocados as part of a diet designed to lower bad cholesterol and promote heart health.

9. Mixed Nuts (Unsalted)

Unsalted mixed nuts—such as almonds, walnuts, and pistachios—are packed with heart-healthy unsaturated fats, protein, and fiber, all of which can help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Eating a small handful provides lasting energy and crunch without the added sodium or sugars found in salted or honey-roasted varieties.

Because nuts are calorie-dense, moderation is key to enjoying their benefits without excessive calorie intake. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular nut consumption is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and can support overall cardiovascular health.

10. Frozen Grapes

Frozen grapes are a refreshing, naturally sweet snack ideal for those seeking a cholesterol-free treat without added sugars. Simply wash, freeze, and enjoy for a cool bite that rivals the sweetness of sugary popsicles but with far fewer calories and no artificial ingredients.

Grapes are rich in polyphenols—antioxidant compounds linked to heart health and reduced inflammation. This makes frozen grapes a smart, satisfying alternative to processed desserts. For more on the health benefits of grapes, visit the Cleveland Clinic.

11. Sliced Cucumbers with Lemon and Tajín

Sliced cucumbers topped with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of Tajín seasoning create a tangy, hydrating snack that is completely cholesterol-free. Unlike creamy dips, which can be high in saturated fat and calories, this snack is light, crisp, and refreshing.

Cucumbers are composed mostly of water and are very low in calories, making them ideal for weight management and hydration. According to the USDA, cucumbers are a nutritious, heart-friendly vegetable perfect for guilt-free snacking.

12. Whole Wheat Pita with Salsa

Whole wheat pita triangles paired with fresh tomato salsa offer a fiber-rich, cholesterol-free snack that’s both satisfying and heart-healthy. This combination is a smart alternative to calorie-laden nachos and cheese dip, providing the crunch and flavor you crave without excess saturated fat.

Fresh salsa delivers vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and minimal fat, making it an ideal dip for those watching their cholesterol. According to Harvard Health, snacks rich in fiber and nutrients are best for supporting heart health and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

13. Trail Mix with Dried Fruit and Seeds

A homemade trail mix featuring unsweetened dried fruit and seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds delivers a nutrient-dense, cholesterol-free snack that’s easy to customize. Unlike many store-bought mixes that contain added salt, sugar, and unhealthy oils, this version is naturally sweet and packed with fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential minerals.

Seeds are particularly beneficial for heart health due to their unsaturated fat content and plant-based protein. For more on creating healthy snacks and the benefits of nutrient-rich trail mixes, visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

14. Cherry Tomatoes with Balsamic Glaze

Cherry tomatoes drizzled with a light balsamic glaze create a sweet, tangy snack that’s both refreshing and entirely cholesterol-free. This combination offers a healthier alternative to creamy tomato-based dips, which often contain saturated fats and added calories.

Cherry tomatoes are loaded with antioxidants, including lycopene, which is known for its heart-protective properties. The balsamic glaze adds flavor without the need for unhealthy oils or dairy. For detailed nutritional information on tomatoes, refer to the USDA nutrient database.

15. Baby Carrots with Guacamole

Pairing crunchy baby carrots with creamy guacamole creates a fiber-rich, vitamin-packed snack that’s naturally cholesterol-free. Unlike chips and guacamole, which add excess salt and unhealthy fats, carrots provide crunch and nutrients without added calories or cholesterol. Guacamole, made from heart-healthy avocados, supplies beneficial monounsaturated fats.

This combination supports heart health and keeps you satisfied. The American Heart Association recommends increasing vegetable intake and choosing healthy fats, making this snack a great choice for those looking to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

16. Seaweed Snacks

Roasted seaweed snacks are a light, crispy option packed with iodine, minerals, and fiber, all while containing zero cholesterol and very few calories. Unlike traditional potato chips, which are high in saturated fat and calories, seaweed snacks provide essential nutrients in each savory bite.

However, it’s important to be mindful of sodium content, as some varieties can be high in salt. According to the Cleveland Clinic, seaweed snacks can be a healthy addition to your diet when selected with minimal added sodium and enjoyed in moderation.

17. Banana with Cinnamon

Sliced banana topped with a dash of cinnamon offers a naturally sweet, cholesterol-free snack loaded with potassium and dietary fiber. This simple treat satisfies cravings for sweetness without the added sugars, saturated fat, or cholesterol found in baked goods and processed snacks.

Bananas also provide vitamin B6, vitamin C, and antioxidants, supporting overall heart health. According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, bananas are a nutritious fruit that contributes to healthy blood pressure and cardiovascular wellness.

18. Unsweetened Applesauce with Chia Seeds

Unsweetened applesauce sprinkled with chia seeds creates a wholesome, cholesterol-free snack packed with fiber and plant-based omega-3 fatty acids. Unlike pudding cups, which often contain added sugars and unhealthy fats, this combination is naturally sweet and supports digestive and heart health.

Chia seeds absorb liquid, adding texture and a nutritional boost without altering flavor. They are known to help lower cholesterol, improve satiety, and supply antioxidants. For more on the health benefits of chia seeds, visit the Mayo Clinic.

19. Cottage Cheese with Pineapple

Low-fat cottage cheese paired with juicy pineapple chunks delivers a satisfying snack rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin C. While cottage cheese contains some cholesterol, choosing low-fat or nonfat varieties keeps levels moderate compared to full-fat cheese snacks.

The fresh pineapple adds natural sweetness and extra nutrients without added sugars or fats. Portion control is key, as larger servings can increase cholesterol intake. According to the Cleveland Clinic, cottage cheese is a nutritious option when enjoyed in moderation and as part of a balanced, heart-healthy diet.

20. Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Homemade baked sweet potato fries, lightly seasoned with herbs, offer a satisfying, fiber-rich snack that’s completely cholesterol-free. Unlike traditional deep-fried fries, which are high in unhealthy fats and cholesterol, baking sweet potatoes enhances their natural sweetness without adding excess oil.

Sweet potatoes are also packed with vitamin A, supporting immune function and eye health. This heart-healthy alternative provides all the flavor and crunch of fries without the drawbacks. The American Heart Association recommends sweet potatoes as a smart choice for maintaining cardiovascular wellness.

21. Fruit Salad with Citrus Dressing

A vibrant fruit salad tossed with a zesty citrus dressing makes for a refreshing, vitamin-packed snack that’s naturally cholesterol-free. Unlike creamy fruit salads that often contain added sugars and saturated fats, this version is light, hydrating, and full of antioxidants from a mix of fresh fruits like oranges, berries, and kiwi. The citrus dressing enhances flavor without the need for heavy toppings.

Adding a sprinkle of nuts or seeds can provide extra crunch along with healthy fats and protein. Preparing it in advance and chilling it makes for a convenient grab-and-go option. According to the CDC, choosing fresh fruit over sugary snacks supports heart health and helps limit unnecessary sugar intake.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes or addressing any health concerns. For more information, visit the FDA’s advice on consulting your healthcare provider.