Cholesterol can be bound to fat and protein at different densities. Two main types include: - Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) -- bad cholesterol
- High-density lipoproteins (HDL) -- good cholesterol
In general, you want your LDL to be LOW, and your HDL to be HIGH. High cholesterol and other lipid disorders can be inherited (genetic) or associated with: - Fatty diets
- Diabetes, hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, and kidney failure
- Certain medications, including birth control pills, estrogen, corticosteroids, certain diuretics, and beta-blockers
- Lifestyle factors, including habitual, excessive alcohol use and lack of exercise, leading to obesity.
People who smoke and also have high cholesterol are at even greater risk for heart disease. Lipid disorders are more common in men than women.
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