Factors Affecting Blood Cholesterol Levels: Diet, Exercise & More

* Diet: Saturated fat, cholesterol, and trans fat can increase blood cholesterol levels, while monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats can help to lower them.

* Exercise: Regular exercise can help to lower blood cholesterol levels by reducing the amount of LDL (bad) cholesterol and increasing the amount of HDL (good) cholesterol.

* Weight: Being overweight or obese can increase blood cholesterol levels.

* Family history: If you have a family history of high blood cholesterol, you are more likely to develop the condition yourself.

* Age: Blood cholesterol levels tend to increase with age.

* Gender: Men tend to have higher blood cholesterol levels than women.

* Menopause: Women who have gone through menopause are more likely to have higher blood cholesterol levels.

* Certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, and thyroid problems, can increase blood cholesterol levels.

* Medications: Some medications, such as birth control pills, corticosteroids, and beta-blockers, can increase blood cholesterol levels.