Lifestyle habits linked to high cholesterol levels

Medical experts warn that certain daily habits, beyond just dietary fat intake, can negatively impact blood lipid levels by increasing bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides while decreasing good cholesterol (HDL).

Three primary habits identified as contributors to high cholesterol include prolonged sitting, insufficient sleep, and skipping breakfast. Research indicates that even with daily exercise, long periods of sedentary behavior can harm lipid profiles. Experts recommend taking short movement breaks every hour to break up inactivity.

Sleep deprivation, particularly getting fewer than six hours of sleep per night, is also linked to increased LDL levels. Health professionals suggest aiming for seven to nine hours of consistent sleep for heart health. Additionally, skipping breakfast has been associated with higher LDL levels; studies show those who skip breakfast may have LDL levels approximately 9 mg/dL higher than those who eat it. Consuming a fiber-rich breakfast, such as oatmeal with berries or whole-grain bread with avocado, can help bind cholesterol in the digestive tract and promote its excretion.