### How Does a High-Sugar Diet Affect Cholesterol? It's well-known that saturated fats can raise your cholesterol levels, but did you know that a diet high in sugars can also have a significant impact? Consuming too much sugar can lead to an increase in bad cholesterol (LDL) and a decrease in good cholesterol (HDL). This imbalance can raise your risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. Added sugars, which are different from the natural sugars found in fruits and milk, are often found in sweetened beverages, desserts, and processed foods. These sugars add extra calories without providing any essential nutrients, contributing to weight gain and increasing the risk of diabetes. When you consume too much sugar, your liver produces more LDL cholesterol and reduces the amount of HDL cholesterol. Additionally, the extra calories from sugary foods can lead to higher levels of triglycerides, a type of fat in your blood that can further impact your cholesterol health. High levels of triglycerides, combined with high LDL and low HDL, can cause fatty deposits in your arteries, increasing your risk of cardiovascular diseases. To maintain healthy cholesterol levels and overall health, it's important to limit your intake of added sugars. Women should aim for no more than 6 teaspoons of added sugar per day, while men should limit themselves to 9 teaspoons. Regular exercise can also help burn off extra calories and improve your cholesterol levels. If you're unsure about how to reduce your sugar intake, consult your doctor or a nutritionist for personalized advice. Remember, high cholesterol often has no symptoms, so it's crucial to get your levels checked regularly. Adults over 20 should have their cholesterol levels tested every 4 to 6 years. If you have high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend dietary and lifestyle changes or prescribe medications to help manage it.