Health experts are warning that high cholesterol is becoming common among people in their 20s, driven by stress, poor diet, and sedentary habits.
Once considered a midlife concern, cholesterol issues are now showing up in routine tests of young adults, doctors say.
Dr Ramesh Dutta, a cardiologist, said the trend reflects a sharp rise in unhealthy eating patterns and stress-driven snacking.
“Many young professionals skip meals, rely on processed food, and eat late at night. This disrupts metabolism and pushes cholesterol levels up,” he said.
According to experts, stress-eating and lack of sleep raise cortisol, a hormone that triggers fat buildup and cholesterol imbalance.
Frequent intake of fast food, sugary drinks, and fried snacks increases LDL (bad cholesterol) and lowers HDL (good cholesterol). Over time, this can lead to early-onset heart disease, even before the age of 30.
Nutritionist Dr Meenal Arora said many young people view high cholesterol as an ‘older person’s problem’ and ignore preventive care.
“They often find out about high cholesterol accidentally during health checkups. The damage, however, starts much earlier,” she explained.
Doctors say genetic factors also play a role. People with familial hypercholesterolemia, a hereditary condition, are at higher risk and must undergo regular screening.
“If there’s a family history of heart disease, testing should start early,” said Dr Arora.
Experts recommend early lifestyle corrections to control cholesterol levels. Regular exercise, home-cooked meals, and adequate sleep can significantly reduce risk.
Replacing processed foods with fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains helps balance cholesterol naturally.
Cardiologists advise 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, and managing stress through meditation or yoga. “These steps are simple but effective. They work better than waiting for medication,” Dr Dutta added.
With more young people leading high-stress, screen-heavy lives, doctors urge awareness and early testing. “The earlier we detect and manage cholesterol, the better the long-term heart health,” said Dr Dutta.
Health experts stress that cholesterol is no longer an age-linked issue; it’s a lifestyle marker.
A balanced diet, regular movement, and mindful eating can keep the heart healthy even in a fast-paced world.
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