Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is essential for the construction of cells in our body and the production of hormones. The liver produces most of the cholesterol needed by the body. But when its level increases in the blood, especially when the bad cholesterol called LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) increases, it accumulates in the blood vessels and causes heart attacks and strokes. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind high cholesterol:
Unhealthy Diet: The most important scientific reason for high cholesterol is unhealthy eating habits. Saturated Fat and Trans Fat are found in meat fat, ghee, dalda, fried and deep-fried foods, fast food, and bakery foods (cakes, biscuits). These disrupt the natural function of the liver and cause a large amount of bad cholesterol (LDL) to be produced in the body.
Physical inactivity and slow metabolism (Sedentary Lifestyle): In people who sit in front of the computer or in the office for hours, the body’s metabolism slows down. When we exercise, the body produces good cholesterol called HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein), which removes bad cholesterol from the blood vessels and takes it to the liver to be destroyed. When exercise is stopped, good cholesterol decreases and bad cholesterol accumulates in the blood vessels.
Heredity and genetic factors (Genetics / Familial Hypercholesterolemia): In some people, cholesterol always remains high, no matter how much they diet or exercise. The reason for this is genetic disorders. Scientifically, this is called Familial Hypercholesterolemia. If parents or other family members had cholesterol and heart disease at a young age, there is a high chance that the next generation will also have cholesterol due to genetic reasons.
Obesity and belly fat: Weight gain, especially abdominal fat, can disrupt cholesterol levels. In obese people, triglycerides (another type of fat) in the blood increase and good cholesterol (HDL) decreases significantly. This causes the inner diameter of the blood vessels to narrow.
Other diseases and use of certain medications: People with hypothyroidism, which is an underactive thyroid gland, have high cholesterol levels because their body does not properly digest fat. Chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and excessive alcohol consumption can also increase cholesterol. Some medications taken to lower BP and hormonal changes can also cause this.
