What causes high LDL cholesterol levels?
Some of the factors that can lead to high cholesterol are:
Overweight — Excess weight has been linked with high cholesterol levels.
Heredity — If cholesterol problems or heart disease run in your family, you are at a higher risk for having problems.
Diet — Remember the saying "you are what you eat"? Avoid foods that are high in cholesterol, saturated fat, and trans fat, all of which increase cholesterol levels and your risk of developing heart disease.
Age — The risk of high cholesterol increases as you get older.
Physical activity tends to increase HDL levels, which reduces your chance of developing heart disease.