Cholesterol & Blood Pressure: Understanding the Connection & Risks

High blood pressure and high cholesterol are two conditions caused by a combination of heredity and lifestyle habits. Altering your diet, increasing exercise and reducing stress can improve both conditions.

Heart Disease

• If you have a history of high cholesterol and high blood pressure, you are at risk of heart disease, according to Dr. Stephen R. Devries.

Metabolic Syndrome

• You may have metabolic syndrome if you are obese, have borderline high blood sugar, have high blood pressure and low HDL, or "good" cholesterol, levels.

Smoking

• Smoking lowers your HDL levels and damages your blood vessels, which leads to high blood pressure.

Sedentary Lifestyle

• If you are physically inactive, you are more likely to have high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels.

Insulin Resistance

• Obesity can lead to your body becoming more and more insulin-resistant. Insulin resistance is accompanied by high triglyceride levels, low HDL levels and high blood pressure.