High cholesterol even when you’re thin? US doctor explains why genes matter more than size

Think being thin means you’re safe from high cholesterol? Experts say genetics play a big role—here’s what you need to know to protect your heart. (Photo: Pexels)

• Thin people can have high cholesterol due to genetics
• LDL cholesterol buildup raises heart attack and stroke risk
• More fiber and healthy fats can help manage cholesterol levels.

Did our AI summary help?

Being thin doesn’t really mean you are healthy. When it comes to high cholesterol, it is often assumed that it’s a disease of the obese and that a small person won’t get it. However, this may be far from the truth. Genetics plays an important role in determining your lipids and overall health.

Dr Kunal Sood, a US-based double board-certified MD, in his new Instagram video, shared the case of a 27-year-old woman, weighing 100 lbs, who was diagnosed with high cholesterol. “So here’s the reality: you can be thin, eat healthy, and still have high cholesterol,” he said.

Research shows that thin people may have high levels of cholesterol irrespective of diet or weight. This is due to the liver, which is responsible for producing most of the body’s cholesterol. Its production rate, in turn, is determined by our genes.

Also Read: How to control cholesterol naturally: Keep your heart healthy with lifestyle changes, statins, and more

“A lot of people don’t realise that cholesterol isn’t determined by body weight alone. A big part of it is genetics and how your body processes cholesterol particles in your blood. One of those particles is called LDL, which is often called the bad cholesterol,” Dr Sood said.

“When LDL levels stay elevated, those particles can enter the walls of your arteries and gradually build plaque over time, that’s what increases the risk of heart attack and stroke,” he further added.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kunal Sood, MD (@doctorsoood)

Role of diet in controlling cholesterol

While people assume a strict diet can help, switching to healthy, simple swaps can help you enjoy foods just the same. Dr Sood suggested reducing saturated fats from things like fatty meats and replacing them with heart-healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and fish. Even foods high in soluble fibre, like beans, fruits, and vegetables, can help remove cholesterol from your circulation.

Also Read: Gastroenterologist reveals one proven way to lower bad cholesterol naturally

“So if you’re young and thin, but your cholesterol is high, you didn’t necessarily do anything wrong. Sometimes it’s about understanding how your body handles cholesterol and making targeted changes,” he concluded.

FAQs on High Cholesterol and Genes

1. Can thin people have high cholesterol?

Yes, thin people can have high cholesterol due to genetic factors that influence how their body processes cholesterol.

2. How do genetics affect cholesterol levels?

Genetics play a significant role in determining the rate at which the liver produces cholesterol and how the body processes it, impacting overall cholesterol levels.

3. What is LDL cholesterol?

LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, is often referred to as bad cholesterol. Elevated LDL levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.