Which factor is a risk contributor to atherosclerosis?

High levels of cholesterol in the bloodstream are a significant risk contributor to atherosclerosis because they can lead to the buildup of plaques in the arteries. When there are elevated levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, it can accumulate in the artery walls, leading to inflammation and hardening of the arteries over time. This process is a key factor in the development of atherosclerosis, which narrows the arteries and increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

While low physical activity frequency can also contribute to atherosclerosis due to its potential impact on overall cardiovascular health, the direct effect of elevated cholesterol levels is more pronounced in the pathophysiology of the disease. High energy expenditure during workouts generally results in improved cardiovascular health, making it less likely to contribute to atherosclerosis. Inadequate protein intake can affect overall health and muscle maintenance, but it does not have a direct link to the development of atherosclerosis in the same way that high cholesterol does.