High cholesterol levels are caused by a mix of lifestyle habits, genetics, and certain health conditions. Most people have no symptoms at all, which makes it a silent but serious risk. This article covers the main causes and what you can do about them.

Lifestyle Habits That Raise Cholesterol

What You Eat Matters Most

Eating foods high in saturated fat and trans fat is one of the most common causes. Think fried foods, fatty meats, butter, and packaged baked goods. These foods raise LDL, the “bad” cholesterol that clogs arteries.

No more than 10% of your daily calories should come from saturated fat, according to the NIH.

Smoking, Inactivity, and Stress

Smoking lowers HDL (good cholesterol) and damages blood vessels. A sedentary lifestyle leads to weight gain, which raises LDL and lowers HDL. Even chronic stress can cause the body to make more cholesterol.

Genetics and Family History

When It Runs in the Family

Some people inherit a condition called familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). It causes very high LDL from a young age. According to the CDC, an estimated 1 million U.S. adults have confirmed or probable FH.

If high cholesterol runs in your family, you are at higher risk, even with a healthy lifestyle.

Health Conditions That Affect Cholesterol

Medical Causes You Should Know

Certain conditions raise cholesterol levels too, including:

• Obesity and diabetes
• Thyroid disease and kidney disease
• Sleep apnea and PCOS

Some medicines like steroids and antipsychotics can also affect your levels.

High Cholesterol Has No Symptoms

That is what makes it dangerous. A simple blood test is the only way to know your numbers. Over 94 million American adults have high cholesterol, according to the CDC, and many do not know it.

Regular cholesterol management and checkups through annual physicals can catch it early. For those with related concerns, heart disease management support is also available.

Final Thoughts

High cholesterol levels come from what you eat, how you live, and sometimes your genes. The good news is that most causes are manageable with the right care. If you are ready to take control of your cholesterol, contact Yorktown Health Vernon Hills and get your levels checked today.