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What Is High LDL Cholesterol?
LDL cholesterol, commonly known as “bad” cholesterol, is one of five different types of cholesterol your body needs for essential tasks. High LDL cholesterol occurs when there is too much “bad” cholesterol in the bloodstream.
Risks Associated With High LDL Cholesterol
Having high levels of LDL cholesterol increases your risk for several health conditions including stroke, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. This is because high levels of LDL cholesterol causes plaque buildup in the arteries, which can form a blockage.
Causes of High LDL Cholesterol
High LDL cholesterol can be caused by several different factors. These include:
- Eating a diet high in saturated and trans fats.
- Having a family history of high cholesterol.
- Being overweight or obese.
- Having an inactive lifestyle.
- Smoking.
- Consuming too much alcohol.
How to Lower LDL Cholesterol
Lowering LDL cholesterol levels is possible with lifestyle changes. These changes include:
- Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Regular physical activity.
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Quitting smoking.
- Limiting alcohol intake.
Preventing High LDL Cholesterol
The best way to prevent high LDL cholesterol is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol and tobacco use. By doing this, you can help reduce your risk of developing high LDL cholesterol and other health conditions.
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