• Genetics – Those who have a family history of cholesterol imbalance have a genetic propensity to develop it, regardless of diet.
• Unmanaged chronic conditions – When the body is chronically inflamed, metabolic functions become disrupted. Therefore, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and insulin levels all become imbalanced. By effectively managing your chronic condition, you can effectively lower your risk of high cholesterol, high triglycerides, and high insulin levels.
• Unbalanced dietary intake of fats – The idea that you should eliminate cholesterol from your diet is outdated, according to the Harvard School of Public Health.⁵ Dietary intake of cholesterol actually has a minimal impact on your cholesterol levels. Instead, cholesterol levels are based on the amount that the liver produces. The liver produces 75% of your cholesterol, while only 25% is derived from foods that actually contain cholesterol. The biggest factor in blood cholesterol levels is the proper mix of dietary fats. Americans consume far too many omega-6 essential fatty acids, and not enough omega-3 essential fatty acids. In addition, Americans consume unhealthy trans fats, which are known to raise bad LDL blood cholesterol levels. You can positively change your cholesterol levels by eating: 
  • less omega-6 found in corn oil, sunflower oil, and safflower oil;
  • more fish and fish oil which are high in omega-3 essential fatty acids;
  • healthy saturated fat found in extra virgin organic coconut oil;
  • more whole fiber (something which is known to lower cholesterol levels);
  • NO trans fats. These should be eliminated from your diet entirely.

Additional Information about Cholesterol

1. Cholesterol Imbalance Overview
2. Common symptoms of cholesterol imbalance
3. Help me choose a natural and alternative treatment for cholesterol imbalance    
4. Dietary and lifestyle recommendations that may help in the treatment of cholesterol imbalance    
5. Conventional or prescription medications used in the treatment of cholesterol imbalance 
6. Cited Sources and Additional Reading for cholesterol imbalance