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Can stress cause high cholesterol?
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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #12366
46 days ago
69

Can stress cause high cholesterol? - #12366

Ishita

I am super confused about something and hope someone can help me out. Last month, I went for my annual check-up and the doc said my cholesterol is really high, like way higher than it should be, and I honestly don’t understand why. I mean, I’ve always tried to eat pretty healthy, you know? But this summer I've been under a ton of stress with work and personal stuff, and I can't help but wonder—can stress cause high cholesterol? My friends keep telling me that stress can mess with everything, but does it really affect cholesterol directly? I’ve read some articles and they mentioned that stress might lead to bad lifestyle choices, like snacking or not exercising. Is that true? Also, could anxiety actually be a factor too? It just seems kinda overwhelming right now. I guess I thought cholesterol was mostly about diet or genetics, not my mental health! Should I be looking into stress management? Maybe that would help lower my cholesterol levels? Would love any insights or personal experiences on this! Thanks a bunch!

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Doctors’ responses

Stress itself does not directly cause high cholesterol, but it can contribute to behaviors that may impact your cholesterol levels, both indirectly and significantly. Stress tends to lead some people to adopt less healthy lifestyle habits, like consuming more comfort foods that are high in trans fats and sugars, skipping exercise, or even smoking and drinking more alcohol, all of which can raise cholesterol levels. Anxiety, a facet of stress, is also linked to these lifestyle factors. Furthermore, stress triggers the body’s “fight-or-flight” response, leading to hormone release, like cortisol and adrenaline, which may potentially influence cholesterol metabolism over time. That said, it’s a multifaceted picture—your genetics and diet do remain integral to cholesterol levels, but stress is definitely a piece of the larger puzzle. It seems logical that incorporating stress management techniques could be beneficial, not only to help potentially lower cholesterol but also for your overall mental and physical health. Regular physical activity, for instance, can both alleviate stress and improve your lipid profile. Mindfulness practices, yoga, or even professional counseling could be worthwhile, especially if stress feels overwhelming. Monitoring your diet carefully and considering a dietitian consultation to navigate food choices might be appropriate too. Beyond stress management, ensure you get regular health check-ups and stay engaged with your healthcare provider to keep your cholesterol and overall well-being in check. If stress or your cholesterol levels are highly concerning, discussing this with your doctor could help tailor a plan specific to your needs.

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