10 causes of high cholesterol: Obesity, smoking, ageing, more

By Namita S Kalla | March 13, 2025

10 causes of high cholesterol: Obesity, smoking, ageing

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Excess body weight, particularly around the abdomen, can elevate cholesterol levels and heighten the risk of heart disease

Obesity

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Consuming foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can raise cholesterol levels in the body

Unhealthy diet

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Physical inactivity lowers HDL cholesterol levels, consequently increasing the risk of high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease

Lack of exercise

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Smoking harms blood vessels, reduces HDL cholesterol, and raises LDL cholesterol, resulting in elevated cholesterol levels

Smoking

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Drinking too much alcohol can raise triglyceride levels and increase cholesterol levels, contributing to heart disease risk

Excess alcohol consumption

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Uncontrolled diabetes can cause a rise in triglyceride and LDL levels, while decreasing HDL cholesterol, leading to high cholesterol

Diabetes

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Conditions like cirrhosis can affect the liver’s ability to process cholesterol properly, resulting in elevated cholesterol levels

Liver disease

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As you age, cholesterol levels often increase due to changes in metabolism and how the body processes fat

Ageing

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 Chronic stress may cause changes in cholesterol metabolism, increasing LDL cholesterol levels, decreasing HDL cholesterol

Stress

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Cholesterol levels are affected by various other factors including  genetics, weight gain and unhealthy lifestyle choices.

Weight gain

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