No Cholesterol Diets

The only diet without any dietary cholesterol at all is a vegan diet. A vegan diets consists only of plant sources, meaning that no animal products like meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, gelatin and other animal byproducts are consumed. A vegan diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, beans, nuts, seeds and oils. Vegetarian meat imitations and dairy substitutes such as soy cheese or tempeh bacon are also enjoyed as part of a balanced vegan diet.

No Cholesterol

Cholesterol is only found in animal products. Meats, dairy, eggs and animal byproducts all contain cholesterol regardless of whether they are low-fat, lean or full-fat items. To maintain a no cholesterol diet, animal products cannot be consumed at all.

Replace all animal products with cholesterol-free vegetarian alternatives such as soy milks, soy and rice cheeses, tofu and meat analogues such as tempeh bacon and veggie burgers for all your favorite meats. Imitation meats and dairy products have come a long way and can easily be substituted without compromising flavor.

Vegan Nutrition

Properly balanced vegan diets are usually healthier than diets that include meat and dairy. A balanced vegan diet should include an abundance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and legumes. Excellent sources of vegan protein include beans, lentils, tofu, peas, peanut butter, nuts, seeds, soy milks, spinach, rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, oatmeal, potatoes, broccoli, kale, vegan protein powders and meat substitutes.

Dark green vegetables, tofu, fortified juices, quinoa, spinach, fortified soy milks, soy yogurts, soy cheeses and other vegan dairy replacements are also excellent sources of calcium. Be sure to eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, leafy greens, nuts and legumes every day.

Common Vegan Foods

Dry cereals, oatmeal, rice, dry pasta, bread, juice, peanut butter, vegetable and lentil soups, salads, stir-fry vegetables, tofu, bean chili, fruit smoothies, popcorn, vegetarian baked beans, guacamole, hummus, tabouli, beans, lentils, falafels, bean burritos, vegetable curries, corn fritters, french fries, potato chips, pretzels, animal crackers, graham crackers and Bisquick are common vegan foods. Classic dishes such as pizza, lasagna, pancakes and hot dogs can also be made vegan with simple substitutions.