Why Cholesterol Spikes

Your cholesterol level is composed of HDL, which is good cholesterol, LDL, or bad cholesterol, and triglycerides. Several factors cause these numbers to fluctuate, increasing your risk for heart disease, heart attack and stroke.

Saturated Fats

Eating even one meal high in saturated fats can cause your LDL to increase. Fried foods, high-fat dairy (ice cream or cheese), animal meats (veal, lamb or pork) and baked pastries are high in saturated fats.

Trans Fats

A meal high in trans fats increases triglyceride levels. Partially hydrogenated oils, margarine, vegetable shortening, doughnuts, potato chips and fast food are high in trans fats.

Simple Carbohydrates

Even a single carb binge can cause your triglycerides to soar. White bread, white potatoes, white rice and desserts made from sugar are all simple carbohydrates.

Alcohol

An alcohol binge certainly raises triglycerides. Moderate alcohol intake (one to two drinks per day) has been associated with good heart health and may elevate HDL levels. However, it is unclear whether alcohol elevates the beneficial or unbeneficial subfractions of HDL.

Stress

According to a 1997 study conducted by the Department of Physiology at LLRM Medical College, high stress levels in students, occurring before important test or exam, can raise triglycerides.

References

• "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Cholesterol;" Stephen R. Devries, M.D.; 2007
• "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Lowering Your Cholesterol;" Joseph Lee Klapper, M.D.; 2006
• National Center for Biotechnology Information: Examination Stress

Resources

• Times of India: Diet, Exercise Lowers Blood Cholesterol