Risk Factors for High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is when the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels rise above normal levels. Some of the risk factors for high cholesterol include a diet that is high in unhealthy fats and low in fiber, as well as high triglycerides, being overweight, diabetes and a sedentary lifestyle.

High cholesterol can cause many diseases of the arteries and heart as well as contribute to the onset of diabetes. Listed are some of the risk factors for high cholesterol.

High Fat Diet

A high fat diet is one of the most common risk factors for high cholesterol levels. Saturated and trans-fats from animal proteins and processed foods are unnatural, and thus the body does not know what to do with them. Thus they often build up in the body, causing the cholesterol levels to rise.

Low Consumption of Fiber

Fiber is absolutely essential in helping the body to maintain the cholesterol at a healthy level. The reason being is that fiber helps to slow down the absorption of the bad cholesterol in the digestive system. The less cholesterol that is absorbed into the body, the less likely the levels will rise to dangerous or abnormal levels.

Overweight and Obesity

Those who are overweight or obese are at a much greater risk for developing high cholesterol than those who are able to maintain their weight at a healthy level.

High Triglycerides

Triglycerides are formed from calories, and when excess amounts of calories are consumed on a regular basis, then the levels can rise dramatically. High triglyceride levels not only contribute to the total cholesterol count, but they can also cause the LDL cholesterol levels to rise.

Diabetes

Those who suffer from diabetes have a much higher chance of developing high cholesterol levels.

Sedentary Lifestyle

A sedentary lifestyle, where one has an office job and does not take the time to exercise is at a higher risk. Exercise increases the blood flow and thereby helps to wash out more toxins from the body. Toxins contribute to abnormal cholesterol levels in the sense that fat cells are needed in order to keep them from harming the organs.

Alcohol Consumption

While alcohol consumption may not have a direct impact on cholesterol levels, it does however increase the triglyceride levels, which can directly affect cholesterol.

Smoking Cigarettes

Cigarettes and cigarette smoke has also been shown to contribute to abnormal cholesterol.

Stress

Stress may not be a direct contributor to high cholesterol, but it can cause individuals to turn to an unhealthy diet, alcohol or cigarettes.

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