The American Heart Association recommends that you keep your intake of total fat to between 25 percent and 35 percent, your saturated fat consumption to less than 7 percent and your intake of trans fat to less than 1 percent of your total daily calories.

At the same time, limit your intake of cholesterol from food to less than 300 mg per day. People with high LDL (bad) blood cholesterol levels or who are taking cholesterol medication should consume less than 200 mg of cholesterol per day.

Eat at least 25 to 30 grams of dietary fiber each day — preferably from whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes.

To combat high blood pressure and for overall cardiovascular health, limit sodium to 1,500 mg or less per day. And if you drink alcohol, do so in moderation (no more than one drink a day for women, no more than two for men).

But a heart-healthy diet isn't just about what you shouldn't eat. It also means eating a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, with whole grains, high-fiber foods, lean meats and poultry, fish at least twice a week, and fat-free or 1 percent fat dairy products. Also, the diet should be low in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol.

By learning to make smart choices — whether you're cooking at home or eating out — you can enjoy flavorful foods while you manage your cholesterol.

• Know Your Fats
• Make Healthy Food Choices
• Cooking for Lower Cholesterol
• Low-Cholesterol Recipes
• Tips for Eating Out

This content is reviewed regularly.  Last updated 02/08/10.