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why cholesterol increases
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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #18481
70 days ago
115

why cholesterol increases - #18481

Aryan

I am trying to figure out why cholesterol increases in my body. Been dealing with some weird health stuff lately, like sudden fatigue and a few unexpected weight changes—feeling kinda off, you know? And I just got my blood work back; cholesterol levels are higher than what I expected. The doc said something about my diet but I don’t eat that bad, or maybe I do? Like, I thought I was being careful, but I do enjoy my cheese and burgers way too much! And I workout a fair bit, but now I'm second-guessing if that even helps with the cholesterol levels. I heard that stress can also play a part, and man, work has been insane lately. So, I’m sitting here wondering why cholesterol increases in some people and not others, and if genetics are at play here. I mean, my mom has high cholesterol too, but I always thought that it’s just something I could control with lifestyle changes. Now I'm not so sure! Can anyone share insights or experiences on why cholesterol increases? Like, is it all about diet, or is there more to it? Would love any advice anyone has!

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Doctors' responses

It’s common to feel puzzled when you’re doing some things right and still have high cholesterol levels. Cholesterol can increase in the body due to a variety of factors, including diet, lifestyle, genetics, and even hormone levels. Consuming foods high in saturated fat and trans fats, like cheese and burgers you enjoy, can raise cholesterol levels. While working out is beneficial and usually helps lower cholesterol, it might not be enough if the diet remains high in these fats. Stress can indeed contribute as well; when you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that might increase cholesterol levels over time. Genetics also play a significant role. If your mom has high cholesterol, there’s a possibility you have inherited a tendency for higher levels too, making it more challenging to manage by lifestyle alone. However, you can still take definite steps to manage high cholesterol. Try focusing on including more heart-healthy foods like oats, nuts, fruits, and vegetables in your diet while reducing intake of saturated and trans fats. Regular physical activity is still key, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, and managing stress through techniques like meditation or yoga can also be beneficial. It’s crucial to continue working with your healthcare provider to monitor your cholesterol levels and discuss whether medication might be necessary if lifestyle changes alone aren’t sufficient. Never hesitate to ask your doctor about personalized strategies suited to your lifestyle and medical history. If you experience symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath, seek medical attention promptly as high cholesterol can be a risk factor for cardiovascular issues.

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