For those with elevated cholesterol, every bite counts-including the small ones between meals. You may think snacks are the way to go but eating at regular intervals is also vital for normalizing your blood sugar levels and getting your metabolism moving all day. Snacking is also a perfect way to include foods that will help lower your cholesterol, as long as you pick carefully.

Here are five healthy snacks you'll love that are fantastic for your heart's health, too.

Oatmeal

If you're searching for a quick way to manage your cholesterol, just add a bowl of oatmeal to your regular diet. Oatmeal soluble fiber helps to "soak up" cholesterol and pass it across the body without absorbing it. Whether you want oatmeal for breakfast or just a quick snack, it's a good choice when you've got high cholesterol.

Fruit

Do you need a quick on-the-go snack? Get a piece of apple. Fruit will help ease the sugar cravings, and it's a perfect snack when you have elevated cholesterol because it has high levels of pectin, fiber, and potassium. Aim for 3 to 4 servings of fruit a day (one serving is just half of a cup).

Nuts

Almonds, walnuts, and peanuts are great for your heart. Some studies have also found that nuts are significantly lower in LDL cholesterol. The American Heart Association suggests 1⁄4 cup of nuts a day for heart health.

Popcorn

When you eat a smart serving size and skip butter and salt, popcorn can be low in calories. And it's a whole grain full of fiber. Air pop it at home and add some olive oil and a few seasonings or parmesan cheese for extra fun. Using olive oil instead of butter helps reduce LDL cholesterol and boost HDL cholesterol.

Homemade potato chips

People seem to think potato chips should be out of reach when it comes to keeping high cholesterol under control-and yes, it's best to skip the typical grease and salt-covered, a fried snack that we all know and enjoy if cholesterol is an issue. Yet the potatoes themselves are low in calories, high in fiber, and full of potassium, a mineral that helps to keep blood pressure under control.

Stick to the baked varieties of potato chips and, if you can, make your own at home. Season with extra virgin olive oil and herbs like rosemary before popping them in the oven.

Healthy snacks are often difficult to add to your daily diet. But preferring healthier snacks over higher fat or higher sugar snacks is important if you have a health problem like high cholesterol. Foods you eat can help to improve or sustain your cholesterol levels. Just note to plan ahead, for most nutritious snacks require a bit of prep time.