Hypercholesterolemia (High Cholesterol): How Can it Affect You?

Karla Andrade
Jan 25
2 min read

Updated: Jan 26

Hypercholesterolemia is the medical term used when there is too much cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that the body needs in small amounts, but high levels can be harmful. This condition usually means there are high levels of LDL cholesterol, which can cause plaque to build up inside the arteries. Plaque is a sticky substance that can clog arteries and slow blood flow, making it harder for the heart to work properly (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023).

There are several causes of high cholesterol. Obesity, unhealthy diet choices, diabetes, and genetics can all raise cholesterol levels. Genetics means that high cholesterol can run in families. Eating foods high in animal fats and having excess body weight can increase LDL cholesterol levels, especially when healthy habits are not followed (American Heart Association [AHA], 2023).

If hypercholesterolemia is not managed, it can lead to serious health problems. High cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease by blocking blood flow to the heart. It can also cause high blood pressure, known as hypertension, because the heart has to work harder to push blood through narrowed arteries. Research also shows that high cholesterol may be linked to osteoporosis, which is a condition that causes weak bones (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [NHLBI], 2022).

LDL cholesterol stands for Low-Density Lipoprotein and is often called “bad” cholesterol. LDLs cause plaque to build up in the arteries, which raises the risk of heart disease and other illnesses. Higher LDL levels are strongly linked to an increased risk for disease, especially problems involving the heart and blood vessels (CDC, 2023).

HDL cholesterol stands for High-Density Lipoprotein and is known as “good” cholesterol. HDLs help remove extra cholesterol from the blood and carries it away from the arteries. This process helps protect the body from disease and lowers the risk of heart-related problems (AHA, 2023).

Healthy lifestyle choices can help lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol.

Resistance training, such as lifting weights two to three times per week, can help raise HDL levels.

Lowering LDL cholesterol can be done by eating less animal fat, such as red meat and butter. Eating more plant-based fats like avocados, nuts, and seeds is also helpful. Limiting saturated fat to about 20 grams per day, which can be found on nutrition labels, supports healthy cholesterol levels (NHLBI, 2022).

In conclusion, hypercholesterolemia is a condition where cholesterol levels in the blood are too high, especially LDL cholesterol. High LDL levels can cause plaque buildup and increase the risk of serious health problems. Making healthy food choices and staying physically active can help manage cholesterol and protect overall health.