Topic Overview

The TLC (Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes) diet can help lower your cholesterol. It is recommended by the National Cholesterol Education Program of the U.S. National Institutes of Health.¹

Here is a sample one-day menu. The menu contains approximately 2,200 calories, with 25% of calories from total fat (5% from saturated fat, 13% from monounsaturated fat, and 7% from polyunsaturated fat).

Breakfast

• ½ cup oatmeal with 1 cup fat-free milk, 1 teaspoon of brown sugar, and 1 sliced banana
• Caffe latte made with 1 cup fat-free milk

Lunch

• Sandwich made from 2 slices whole wheat bread, 2 ounces lean turkey, 1 tablespoon mayonnaise, lettuce, and tomato
• 1 cup carrot sticks
• 1 apple

Snack

• 1 cup low-fat or nonfat vanilla yogurt
• ½ cup mixed raisins and peanuts

Dinner

• 3 ounces baked or broiled salmon
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 cup cooked broccoli
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (used in cooking)
• Salad made with 1½ cups romaine lettuce, ½ cup tomatoes, ¼ cucumber, 1 tablespoon vinegar and oil dressing
• 1 slice Italian bread with 1 teaspoon soft margarine

Snack

• 1 sliced peach with 1 cup fat-free milk

More information

For tips on the TLC diet, see High Cholesterol: Using the TLC Diet.