Advertisement
question

What do cholesterol-free and low-cholesterol food labels mean?

Deborah Beauvais
Deborah Beauvais on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Nutrition & Dietetics
answer
Cholesterol is a fatlike substance produced in your liver, it is found in everyone's bloodstream. As part of every body cell, it's essential to human health and cell-building. There's no Recommended Dietary Allowance for consuming enough cholesterol because your body makes it, too.

Cholesterol terms to understand:

Low cholesterol indicates that a given serving contains 20 milligrams or less of cholesterol and 2 grams or less of saturated fat per serving.

Cholesterol free means that the food must contain fewer than 2 milligrams of cholesterol and 2 grams or less of saturated fat per serving.

Please realize that a food claiming to be low in cholesterol or cholesterol free does not mean the food is fat free. Vegetable oils contain no cholesterol, but they are 100% fat.

The terms fat and cholesterol or not interchangeable.

For more information visit a registered dietitian or visit www.eatright.org the website of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Continue Learning about Nutrition

What medications can interact with coconut?
Coconut oil may interact with cholesterol-lowering agents. Learn more from our experts about coconut...
More Answers
Where can I find a dietitian who would help me gain weight?
Visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics's "Find a Registered Dietitian." Learn more from our ex...
More Answers
9 surprising foods that can raise your blood sugar levels
9 surprising foods that can raise your blood sugar levels9 surprising foods that can raise your blood sugar levels9 surprising foods that can raise your blood sugar levels9 surprising foods that can raise your blood sugar levels
Understanding nutrition labels and the glycemic index can help you select foods that help you manage your blood sugar levels. When you’re managing yo...
Start Slideshow
The insider’s guide to healthy Hawaii: 9 healthiest things to order at these popular fast-food restaurants
The insider’s guide to healthy Hawaii: 9 healthiest things to order at these popular fast-food restaurantsThe insider’s guide to healthy Hawaii: 9 healthiest things to order at these popular fast-food restaurantsThe insider’s guide to healthy Hawaii: 9 healthiest things to order at these popular fast-food restaurantsThe insider’s guide to healthy Hawaii: 9 healthiest things to order at these popular fast-food restaurants
The healthiest eats from McDonalds, Zippy’s, Taco Bell and more. Fast food consumption is on the rise, according to the Centers for Disease Control an...
Start Slideshow

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.