The interplay between genes and environmental factors play a substantial role in determining one’s susceptibility to hyperlipidemia. However, it is important to understand that an unhealthy lifestyle has a profound impact on an individual’s fundamental risk of hyperlipidemia. A high fat diet and physical inactivity increases the risk of both obesity and hyperlipidemia.

Furthermore, studies suggest a significant correlation between serum cholesterol and obesity. Obese individuals are usually found to have increased triglycerides and LDL levels, and lower levels of HDL. It is known that the HDL carries excess cholesterol to the liver, thereby helping the body to eliminate it. But, decreased levels of HDL result in accumulation of triglycerides and LDL in the body, leading to hyperlipidemia.

Accumulation of fat in an obese individual, especially in the abdominal region can lead to insulin resistance, a complex condition found to be associated with hyperlipidemia. It leads to changes in the enzymes involved in cholesterol metabolism. Obesity is also associated with an increase in the inflammatory causing an increase in the accumulation of adipose tissue macrophages, thereby promoting hyperlipidemia.

Additionally, obesity is found to alter the way the body handles cholesterol. Studies show that dietary changes are less effective in improving lipid profiles in obese individuals. It mitigates body’s response to the types of the fats consumed and hence diets with low saturated fatty acids and cholesterol may not make any difference towards weight loss. Visceral fat (fatty tissue in the abdominal cavity) also interferes with the endocrine and immune system leading to chronic inflammation, a common complication of obesity. Such inflammation may also decrease the body’s response to changes in dietary fat intake.