In this generation of sedentary lifestyle and eating junk food, high cholesterol levels has become way more casual and are considered normal until we face a health issue linked with high cholesterol levels. High cholesterol levels could lead to hell number of disorders which are as follows:
high cholesterol levels could lead to:
- Atherosclerosis
- stroke
- high blood pressure
- Myocardial infarction
- Pulmonary embolism
these are some of them which are the results of continuous high blood cholesterol levels , high blood cholesterol levels not only serves as the risk factor for these diseases but could lead to development of many other chronic disorders which could be fatal. For example it could lead to heart attack and we all are way more familiar with it.
what are the various causes for increase in blood cholesterol levels ??
High blood cholesterol is caused by a mix of lifestyle, genetic, and medical factors. Here’s a breakdown of the most common and important causes:
1. Unhealthy Diet (Most Common Cause)High saturated fat intake (e.g., red meat, full-fat dairy, butter)Trans fats (e.g., fried food, packaged snacks)Excess dietary cholesterol (e.g., organ meats, egg yolks—less significant than fats)
2. Lack of Physical Activity
Sedentary lifestyle lowers HDL (good cholesterol) and raises LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides.
- Obesity or Overweight
Especially excess belly fat (visceral fat) contributes to higher LDL and triglycerides and lowers HDL.
4. Smoking
5. Excess alcohol intake
these are the common causes of high blood cholesterol levels except for genetic factor most of these could be controlled by adopting a healthy lifestyle, quitting smoking and drinking alcohol, controlling weight etc. which is essential to prevent the diseases caused by high blood cholesterol levels.
steps for controlling cholesterol levels:
- Eat a Heart-Healthy DietReduce saturated fats (red meat, butter, full-fat dairy)Avoid trans fats (fried, processed foods)Increase soluble fiber (oats, beans, fruits)Add healthy fats (olive oil, nuts, omega-3s)
- Exercise RegularlyAt least 30 minutes/day of moderate activity (e.g., brisk walking) most days of the week
- Maintain a Healthy WeightLose extra weight to lower LDL and raise HDL
- Quit Smoking- Improves HDL and overall heart health.
- Limit Alcohol -If you drink, do so in moderation (1 drink/day for women, 2 for men)