Is it genes or food? What really affects your cholesterol

             Written by: Dr Subita Alagh

7 August 2025

Your cholesterol levels are shaped by many factors like what you eat, your DNA, your age, and your habits.

What Really Affects Cholesterol?

Photo Credit: Freepik

Saturated fats and excess sugar raise LDL (bad cholesterol). Oats, nuts, fruits, and healthy fats can help lower it.

Yes, Food Matters a Lot

Photo Credit: Freepik

Some people inherit high cholesterol (familial hypercholesterolemia). They may need medication early, even with a good diet.

But Genes Matter Too

Photo Credit: Freepik

Cholesterol tends to rise with age. Estrogen protects women until menopause, then LDL often spikes.

Age and Hormones Play a Role

Photo Credit: Freepik

Being overweight or inactive can increase LDL and lower HDL. Regular movement improves your lipid profile.

Weight and Exercise Count

Photo Credit: Freepik

Smoking lowers HDL and raises oxidation risk. Chronic stress can also raise cholesterol over time.

Smoking and Stress Don’t Help

Photo Credit: Freepik

You can’t change your genes, but you can eat smart, stay active, and go for regular tests.

So, What Can You Control?

Photo Credit: Freepik

Get a lipid profile and know your heart risk early.

Get Tested

Photo Credit: Freepik

Book Lipid Profile