What Are the Main Factors in Cholesterol Accumulation?

Elevated cholesterol levels put you at risk of coronary heart disease and other chronic conditions. When you know what factors negatively impact your cholesterol, you can take the necessary steps to keep your cholesterol under control.

Genetics

• A genetic condition known as familial hypercholesterolemia causes a defect on chromosome 19. This subverts the body's natural ability to dispose of LDL (bad) cholesterol. Those afflicted with this condition are at risk for elevated cholesterol.

Vices

• Cigarette smoking exacerbates fatty deposits on artery walls. Smoking causes other pejorative effects on the heart, which makes it one of the highest risk factors for developing excessive cholesterol.

Obesity

• The American Heart Association states that obesity increases overall cholesterol and blood pressure, while decreasing levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. When you carry too much body fat, you are at a high risk of developing high cholesterol.

Fats

• Saturated fats and trans fats intensify cholesterol build-up on the walls of your arteries. Trans fats aggravate your LDL levels and decrease the ability of your HDL to effectively flush bad cholesterol from your body.

Lack of Exercise

• Sedentary people are more likely to be overweight and more likely to carry harmful levels of cholesterol. According to researchers at the Mayo Clinic, even 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week can have dramatic effects on lowering cholesterol.