It is currently Diwali week, and the entire country is immersed in the celebrations of this special festival of light and joy. Festivals are synonymous with sweets; without them, the celebrations feel incomplete. However, health experts advise everyone to exercise extra caution regarding their well-being during the festive season—being particularly mindful of the consumption of sweets is essential.

Medical reports indicate that excessive sugar intake does not just lead to weight gain and elevated blood sugar levels; it can also affect your cholesterol levels. The added sugars, ghee, butter, and trans fats found in sweets can be detrimental to heart health.

Individuals who already struggle with diabetes or obesity are advised to be even more careful about consuming sweets. This raises the question: what are the risks to heart health and cholesterol levels?

The Risks of High Cholesterol

Health experts explain that an increase in cholesterol levels raises the risk of fat accumulation in the arteries, which can lead to serious health issues such as heart attacks and strokes. Many people assume that cholesterol levels rise only due to the consumption of oil or ghee; however, studies show that excessive sugar intake can also disrupt the body's fat balance. Since our dietary habits often become irregular during the festive season—leading us to consume more sweets—this can pose significant health risks.

Health experts note that the sugar and fat present in sweets affect the body in different ways. It is important to understand that while sugar does not directly increase "bad" cholesterol (LDL), its excessive consumption can raise triglyceride levels.

Cholesterol is a type of fat that the body requires in certain, limited amounts. However, when 'bad' cholesterol levels in the blood rise, it begins to accumulate on the walls of the arteries.
This can cause the arteries to become narrow and stiff. Such blockages hinder the flow of blood to the heart, increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
The excess sugar found in sweets can raise triglyceride levels in the body. Consuming too many calories can also lead to weight gain, which risks disrupting the body's fat balance.

What do doctors say?

General physician Dr. Utkarsh explains that sweets like *gulab jamun*, *laddoo*, *barfi*, and *rabri* are prepared using *ghee* (clarified butter) and butter. These are high in saturated fats, which can elevate your cholesterol levels.

Furthermore, the hydrogenated vegetable fats used in commercially available sweets and bakery products may contain trans fats. Excessive consumption of these has been linked to an increase in 'bad' cholesterol and a decrease in 'good' cholesterol.

So, how can one avoid these issues?

Health experts emphasize that being mindful of one's diet is crucial for preventing cholesterol-related problems and heart disease.

Avoid the habit of consuming excessive sweets.
Instead of sweets, opt for seasonal fruits, nuts, or items with lower sugar content, consumed in moderation.
Incorporate green vegetables, fruits, lentils, and whole grains into your diet.
Engage in at least 30 minutes of walking or other physical activity daily.
Limit the intake of fried foods, *ghee*, butter, and high-fat food items.
If there is a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease, undergo periodic lipid profile tests to monitor your cholesterol levels.

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