If the level of bad cholesterol is high, then measures should be taken to reduce it, because this condition can lead to heart attack and can also be fatal. Experts often call bad or high cholesterol (LDL) the “silent killer.” In recent times, the eating habits of Indians have deteriorated considerably; It has become common to eat things made from flour, sugar and oily food and to eat anything at any time. Oily food and lack of physical activity make us vulnerable to increasing levels of bad cholesterol. Here, we will discuss the habits that lead to this condition. TV9 spoke to Dr. Amar Singhal (Director, Internal Medicine, Shri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi) on this subject. Know what the experts have to say…
**Expert opinion about high cholesterol**
Dr. Amar Singhal explains that high cholesterol does not increase overnight; Rather, some bad daily habits gradually increase it. Excessive consumption of deep-fried food, junk food, processed food, sweet drinks and items containing trans fat can increase the level of bad cholesterol in the body. Other common mistakes include lack of physical activity, sitting in one place for long periods of time, gaining weight, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and not getting enough sleep.
**Underlying Diseases and Health Problems**
In many cases, diabetes, thyroid problems, kidney problems and family history (genetics) can also cause increased cholesterol levels. There are often no obvious symptoms in the early stages of high cholesterol, so regular testing is important.
**Managing your diet**
Cholesterol levels can be effectively controlled by maintaining a balanced diet, doing at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day, keeping weight under control and following medical advice and prescribed treatment.