Research shows that a vegetarian diet can help with lowering your cholesterol levels. 
There are 4 different variations in a vegetarian diet:
• Vegan – Vegans only consume foods derived from plant products such as vegetables, fruits, beans, seeds, grain and nuts; and will not eat any foods made from or with any animal products.
• Lacto vegetarian – These vegetarians only eat plant products and dairy products, but avoids poultry, red meat and fish.
• Ovo-lacto vegetarian – Ovo-lactos eat plant products, dairy products and eggs, but avoids poultry, red meat and fish.
• Semi- vegetarian – Most veggies fall into this category. They eat plant products, dairy products, eggs and fish, but avoid poultry and red meat.
Most studies indicate that vegetarians have lower cholesterol than non-vegetarians. Another study found similar findings, and also found that vegans have significantly low cholesterol levels in comparison to non vegetarians who consume eggs. Despite these findings, there are health concerns about following a vegetarian diet.
Before adapting to a vegetarian diet, there some nutritional concerns:
1. Protein deficiency — Vegetarians of all types do not consume enough protein, found in meat and poultry, which is essential for sell development. Therefore, it is important to consume other products rich in protein such as soy products, beans, legumes, peas, protein- infused pastas, dairy products and eggs.
2. Iron deficiency – Vegetarians should focus on alternatives sources of iron, like beans and dried fruits.
3. Calcium deficiency – This is especially a problem for the vegetarians who do not consume milk products. Alternative sources of calcium such as cereals, juices, soy and vegetables like spinach and collard greens, are very important to ensure strong bones and teeth.
4. B12 and zinc deficiency – Nutrients found particularly in animal products can be found in other food products. In order to ensure adequate nutrition, vegetarians should take supplements and multivitamins.
So if you choose to follow a vegetarian lifestyle to lower your cholesterol, consult your doctor and make sure you’re doing it safety!