How does a high cholesterol diet increase the risk of coronary heart disease?

High cholesterol diets lead to high cholesterol levels in the blood. Low density lipoproteins, known as LDLs or BAD-cholesterol, build up in the artery walls. They form solid plaques which narrow the artery. This decreases space for blood to flow through the arteries and so the heart muscle receives less oxygen. Lack of oxygen to the heart can cause chest pain, weaken the heart muscle and can lead to heart attack.

ET
Answered by Emily T. Biology tutor

3967 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How does ADH help control water loss in the body?


What are features of alveoli that allow lots of oxygen to enter the blood?


What are the three types of neurones in the human nervous system?


Explain the similarities and difference between diffusion, osmosis and active transport.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning