Cholesterol is not entirely an enemy, as the body still needs it. However, high levels can trigger hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
Understanding the causes of high cholesterol is crucial to prevent its risks. This way, you can take the right steps for your health.
Here’s a summary from KapanLagi.com based on various sources regarding the dangers, causes, and easy ways to overcome high cholesterol. Let’s take a closer look at the explanation on Friday (11/4/2025)!
1. What is Cholesterol? Understand Its Role in the Body
Cholesterol is a fat produced by the liver and plays a role in cell formation, hormone production, and fat digestion. However, if its level exceeds the normal limits, total cholesterol above 240 mg/dL and LDL above 160 mg/dL, the risk of serious diseases increases.
Meanwhile, good cholesterol (HDL) helps clear LDL from the blood vessels. Maintaining a balance between the two is key to optimal health.
2. Commonly Overlooked Causes of High Cholesterol
High cholesterol can be caused by various factors that need to be watched out for.
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Genetic factors: Familial hypercholesterolemia inherited from parents.
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Age: The risk of high cholesterol increases with age.
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Certain diseases: Diabetes, obesity, hypothyroidism, as well as disorders of the kidneys and liver can trigger it.
3. Lifestyle That Triggers Increased Cholesterol Levels

Smoking habits can lead to cholesterol (Image on Freepik)
Be careful with daily habits that can unknowingly increase cholesterol levels and endanger heart health.
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Unhealthy diet: Frequently consuming fried foods, fatty foods, and lacking fiber from vegetables and fruits.
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Lack of physical activity: Sitting for too long without exercise can increase bad cholesterol levels.
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Smoking: Damages blood vessels and lowers good cholesterol levels.
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Excessive alcohol consumption: Can increase total cholesterol and triglycerides.
4. The Impact of High Cholesterol: A Serious Threat to Health
Recognizing the signs and taking preventive measures early is crucial for maintaining body health. Here are the impacts of high cholesterol that can threaten body health.
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Atherosclerosis: Blockage of blood vessels that increases the risk of coronary heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
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High blood pressure: High cholesterol can narrow arteries, forcing the heart to work harder.
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Gallstones: High levels of cholesterol in bile can form gallstones and cause pain.
5. How to Lower Cholesterol Naturally and Medically

The benefits of exercise for health (Image on freepik)
Want to lower cholesterol naturally? Try these steps.
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Improve your diet: Consume more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, and reduce saturated fats.
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Stay active: Spend at least 150 minutes per week exercising.
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Use supplements: Omega 3 can help maintain cholesterol balance.
With these simple methods, heart health can be effectively and enjoyably maintained.
6. Supplements and Nutrition to Address Cholesterol
Want to keep your heart healthy and lower cholesterol? Try consuming some proven beneficial supplements.
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Blackcurrant seed oil: Prevents atherosclerosis and strengthens blood vessels.
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Salmon oil & olive oil: Prevents blood clotting, increases HDL, and lowers LDL.
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Omega 3, 6, and 9: Maintains body fat balance, lowers triglycerides, and regulates blood sugar.
7. Daily Habits to Prevent High Cholesterol
A healthy diet plays a crucial role in preventing high cholesterol. Reduce saturated and trans fats, and increase your intake of vegetables and fruits.
Routine cholesterol checks help detect problems early. Combine it with a healthy lifestyle such as exercising, managing stress, and avoiding excessive smoking and alcohol.
(kpl/sfa)
Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.