b'by oxidation. A recent analysis by the National Institutes of Health noted that oxidized LDL cholesterol is significantly higher inThe Scoop on those with cardiovascular disease. And an earlier study foundStatins that higher levels of oxidized LDL significantly increase the risk ofDesigned to help you maintain heart attack, regardless of total LDL levels.healthy cholesterol levels, statin Size matters too. New findings suggest that it isnt the amount ofdrugs like Lipitor and Zocor LDL cholesterol circulating through your arteriesits the size ofare the most widely prescribed those LDL cholesterol particles. Large, fluffy LDL particles travelmedications in America. Statins easily through your circulatory system. But small, dense particlesblock HMG-CoA reductase, an readily embed themselves into artery wallsand are four timesenzyme that causes the liver to more likely to cause coronary artery disease.produce cholesterol. But while Causes of High Cholesterolstatins can aggressively lower LDL levels, they come with a Lifestyle factors often get blamed for high cholesterol levelsandhost of side effects. Statins with good cause. Studies show that the following can have aalso deplete the bodys supply detrimental impact on your lipids. of coenzyme Q10, a nutrient DIET. A diet high in saturated fat, sugar, and ultra-processed foodthats essential for providing can negatively impact your cholesterol levels.energy to cells, especially WEIGHT. Being overweight tends to raise your LDL level, lowerthe cells in the heart. Its so your HDL level, and increase your total cholesterol level. important that low CoQ10 PHYSICAL ACTIVITY. A sedentary lifestylecan lead to weightlevels are linked to nearly gain, which can raise your LDL level. every form of cardiovascular SMOKING. Cigarette smokinglowers your HDL cholesterol. Sincedisease, including angina, HDL helps to remove LDL from your arteries, having less HDL canhypertension, cardiomyopathy, contribute to a higher LDL level. and congestive heart failure.GET HEART HEALTHY7'