Having cholesterol that’s too high is a major health concern for many people. High cholesterol can have a huge effect on your risk of developing heart disease and stroke, as well as other conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

Cholesterol is a type of fat that’s found in the bloodstream, and it’s produced by the liver. It’s essential for normal body functioning, but too much of it can put you at risk for a wide range of health problems.

The most common cause of high cholesterol is an unhealthy diet. Eating a diet high in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol, as well as foods that are high in calories, can all contribute to high cholesterol levels. Particularly, red meat, fatty dairy products, and fried foods should be avoided when trying to lower your cholesterol.

In addition to diet, physical activity also plays an important role in cholesterol levels. Regular physical activity helps reduce cholesterol by increasing the amount of “good” cholesterol in the bloodstream, as well as improving how your body uses and processes cholesterol.

High cholesterol can also be caused by other health conditions, such as hypothyroidism, kidney or liver diseases, or polycystic ovarian syndrome. Certain medications, such as birth control pills, can also cause high cholesterol.

If you’re concerned about your cholesterol levels, it’s important to speak with your doctor. They can order a blood test to determine your cholesterol levels and recommend medications or lifestyle changes to help lower your cholesterol.

Making simple lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced, low-fat diet and increasing your physical activity, can have a major impact on cholesterol levels. Sticking to a healthy diet and exercise plan will not only reduce your cholesterol levels, but also lower your risk for other chronic conditions.

By making proactive changes, you can help minimize or prevent the effects of high cholesterol and reduce your risk of serious health complications.