Although cholesterol is necessary for the construction of cells in the body, an increase in the level of bad cholesterol (LDL) can lead to fatal conditions such as heart attacks. The main reasons for high cholesterol are:
Unscientific diet: Excessive consumption of foods containing saturated fat is the villain. Fried foods, red meat, bakery foods, and vanaspati increase blood fat.
Lack of exercise: When physical activity decreases, the level of good cholesterol (HDL) in the body decreases and bad cholesterol accumulates. This can affect the elasticity of blood vessels.
Obesity and smoking: When weight increases, the level of triglycerides increases. Smoking damages the walls of blood vessels and allows fat to accumulate there quickly.
Genetics: Some people have a genetic predisposition to produce too much cholesterol (Familial Hypercholesterolemia). In such cases, dietary control alone may not be enough to lower cholesterol.
Other health problems: People with diabetes, thyroid problems, and kidney disease are more likely to have their cholesterol levels fluctuate rapidly.
