What is the daily allowance for cholesterol?

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, along with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, recommends that the general population should consume less than 300 mg of cholesterol per day. Consuming higher amounts of cholesterol increases the risk of heart-related health concerns.

Heart disease continues to be a leading cause of death in the United States, and cholesterol intake remains high in the nation. The recommendation of the USDA to limit cholesterol intake stems from this ongoing concern. The department further recommends that adults with a high risk for heart disease should limit their cholesterol intake to 200 mg per day.