ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

For Steve, who has a total cholesterol level of 235 mg/dL, what dietary recommendation is most appropriate?

1. Limit intake of cholesterol

2. Eat a diet high in soluble fiber

3. Limit intake of saturated fats

4. Reduce total dietary fat to 15-20% of calories

The correct answer is: Limit intake of saturated fats

When addressing Steve's total cholesterol level of 235 mg/dL, which is considered borderline high, the most appropriate dietary recommendation is to limit intake of saturated fats. High saturated fat intake is known to raise low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood, which is a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease. By reducing saturated fats found in animal products (like fatty meats, full-fat dairy, and certain oils), individuals can help lower their overall cholesterol levels and improve their lipid profile. While limiting cholesterol intake and increasing soluble fiber can be beneficial for heart health, the direct impact of saturated fats on cholesterol levels makes it a more pressing dietary concern for someone with elevated total cholesterol. This means that focusing on reducing saturated fat intake can lead to more immediate and significant improvements in cholesterol management. Reducing total dietary fat may also contribute to overall health but is not usually as specific a recommendation for managing high cholesterol as limiting saturated fats is.