Cholesterol is a fat that is necessary for the construction of cells in our body and the production of certain hormones. However, when the level of bad cholesterol (LDL) exceeds the limit, it accumulates in the blood vessels and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. The main reasons are:
Unhealthy diet: The main reason for high cholesterol is excessive consumption of foods containing saturated fat and trans fat. Fried and fried foods, fast food, bakery foods, and red meat (beef, mutton) increase bad cholesterol.
Lack of exercise and laziness: When physical activity decreases, the body is unable to burn fat. Exercising daily can help increase good cholesterol (HDL) and reduce bad cholesterol.
Obesity and abdominal fat: Weight gain and a body mass index (BMI) above 30 can disrupt cholesterol levels. Fat that accumulates around the abdomen, in particular, can increase triglyceride levels.
Smoking and alcohol: Smoking damages the walls of blood vessels and makes it easier for fat to accumulate there. In addition, chemicals in tobacco can reduce the level of good cholesterol. Excessive alcohol consumption can increase total cholesterol and triglycerides.
Heredity and age: If parents have high cholesterol in the family, the next generation is more likely to have it (Familial Hypercholesterolemia). Also, as you get older, your liver’s ability to filter out bad cholesterol decreases, which can lead to high cholesterol.
