Why it's a problem: Your body is winding down in the evening, and metabolism slows. Eating fatty or sugary snacks at night increases the likelihood of storing those fats as cholesterol-laden plaque in your arteries.
Why it's a problem: Exercise helps raise HDL (good) cholesterol and lower LDL. Missing out on movement after dinner means your body doesn't get a chance to balance the effects of your meals.
Why it's a problem: Alcohol and sugary drinks increase triglycerides and can contribute to fatty liver—both of which are linked to elevated cholesterol levels.
Why it's a problem: Poor sleep disrupts hormones like cortisol and insulin, leading to increased LDL and reduced HDL cholesterol. Chronic sleep deprivation is directly linked to heart disease.
Why it's a problem: Stress triggers the release of cortisol, which tells your liver to pump out more cholesterol. Over time, this contributes to artery plaque and higher blood pressure.