Cholesterol is a type of fat found in the bloodstream. The body creates and uses it to function properly. The body makes all the cholesterol it needs, so it is unnecessary to eat foods that contain cholesterol. Increased intake of these foods and other lifestyle habits can lead to hypercholesterolemia, a contributing factor to heart disease. There are several types of cholesterol, but the main two are high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or good cholesterol) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or bad cholesterol). LDL cholesterol level is the main factor in determining if your cholesterol is high.
Genetics
The body produces cholesterol and uses it to produce hormones and vitamin D and to digest fat. Cholesterol level is determined partially by the body's inherited ability to make and dispose of LDL cholesterol. According to the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP), there is one type of inherited high cholesterol that affects 1 in 500 people. It is known as familial hypercholesterolemia and often causes heart disease.
Food
Diet plays a big role in cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is found primarily in animal products such as meat and whole-fat dairy products. Saturated fat is a primary component of high-cholesterol foods and plays a big role in raising cholesterol. Reducing intake of these foods is essential in maintaining cardiovascular health. Following a heart-healthy diet that is high in whole grains, fruits and vegetables can result in reduced levels.
Activity
Physical inactivity often results in weight gain and increased cholesterol levels. NCEP recommends 30 minutes of physical activity most days to reduce LDL cholesterol levels and to increase HDL levels.
Weight
Being overweight or obese can cause elevated cholesterol. Excess weight results in elevated blood pressure, and high cholesterol and triglycerides; reduces healthy HDL cholesterol; and increases stress on the heart. Reducing weight can not only lower total cholesterol but also increase HDL.
Age and Gender
According to NCEP, premenopausal women have lower total cholesterol levels than men of the same age. Cholesterol levels often rise as a person ages. This is especially true for women over the age of 50. Post-menopausal women tend to have higher LDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol levels
Stress
High cholesterol levels can be partially attributed to stress. Many people cope with stressful situations by eating unhealthy foods. Increased cholesterol and saturated fat intake can result in high total cholesterol.
Alcohol
According to NCEP, alcohol intake raises HDL levels but does not affect LDL levels. Physicians don't know if alcohol can aid in reducing heart disease risk. However, they do know that excessive alcohol intake can damage the liver and heart, resulting in high blood pressure and elevated triglyceride levels.
