Primarily, high cholesterol is caused by a diet high in saturated fat, and cholesterol coupled with an inactive unhealthy lifestyle. Certain genetic conditions can cause individuals to have high cholesterol levels and it often runs in families.
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A number of factors can influence your cholesterol levels, including;
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Diet and Lifestyle
A diet high in cholesterol, saturated fat and trans-fatty acids (found in hydrogenated vegetable oils such as margarine) along with being overweight and living an inactive lifestyle, increases LDL and triglyceride levels and results in low levels of HDLs. Smoking and mental stress can further exacerbate high cholesterol. Moderate alcohol consumption increases HDL levels but can cause other serious health problems and is not recommended for preventing high levels of LDLs.
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Other Health Disorders
High blood pressure, diabetes and a family history of heart disease are all associated with high cholesterol.
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Age and Sex
Young women often have lower cholesterol levels then men. In both sexes cholesterol levels increase with age and after menopause, women often have higher levels of cholesterol than men.
Signs & Symptons?
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