Episode 39: What Produces High Cholesterol

Love the podcast but hate taking notes? The Diabetes Podcast Blog compresses every episode into a bulleted, 10 minute read AND has the podcast embedded so you can listen as you read along! Check it out at https://empowereddiabetes.com/diabetes-podcast-blogWhat produces high cholesterol? In this episode, we break down the real drivers: insulin resistance, fatty liver, visceral fat, stress, poor sleep, and ultra-processed foods. We explain why your liver makes most cholesterol, how LDL, HDL, VLDL, and ApoB shape risk, and why triglycerides and a high TG:HDL ratio are early warning lights—often years before diabetes. We share family stories, why low HDL is a red flag, and how stress can tip stable plaque into a heart attack. We also clear up myths about eggs and seed oils. Tools that work: fiber (25–50g/day), daily movement, strength training, weight loss when needed, better sleep, stress care, and meds when needed (statins, ezetimibe, PCSK9s, bempedoic acid). Meds are scaffolding—lifestyle builds the house.  Disclaimer:The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or care team before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, exercise plan, or nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or take prescription drugs like metformin or insulin.Results vary from person to person. Examples, statistics, or studies are shared to educate, not to promise outcomes. Any discussion of medications, dosing, or side effects is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read or heard here. If you think you are experiencing an emergency or severe side effects (such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, allergic reaction, or symptoms of lactic acidosis), call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.We strive for accuracy, but health information changes over time. We make no guarantees regarding completeness, timeliness, or suitability of the content and assume no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this material. Use of this content is at your own risk.Links or references to third-party resources are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement. By reading, listening, or using this information, you agree to these terms and understand that you are responsible for your own health decisions in partnership with your licensed healthcare provider.