Can Your Daily Indian Diet Help Offset High Cholesterol Risk? A New Study Has an Interesting Answer

Can the food you eat every day influence your cholesterol levels even if high cholesterol runs in your family? A new study involving Indian adults suggests that the overall quality of your diet may matter alongside your genetic risk.

Researchers analysed 1,020 adults aged 25–80 who participated in the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study. Published in PLOS ONE in October 2026, the research examined how dietary quality and selected genetic factors were associated with cholesterol levels.

What did researchers discover?

The study found that people with a higher genetic risk had higher total and LDL cholesterol when their diets scored poorly on overall quality. This relationship was less evident among participants whose diets scored at medium or high levels.

Read also:

Always Tired, Losing Hair or Gaining Weight? Could Your Thyroid Be the Reason?

LDL is often called “bad cholesterol” because elevated levels can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries. However, the study examined associations between diet, genetics and cholesterol; it did not prove that changing a diet will eliminate inherited risk.

Which everyday foods deserve attention?

A balanced Indian diet can include:

• Pulses and legumes: Dal, chickpeas, rajma and other beans.

You do not necessarily need to stop eating rice or traditional foods. What matters is the overall eating pattern, portion sizes and what these foods replace in your diet.

Does a healthy diet mean you can ignore family history?

No. Genetics, age, physical activity, smoking, other health conditions and diet can all influence cardiovascular risk. People with a family history of early heart disease or high cholesterol should discuss appropriate screening with a healthcare professional.

Do not stop prescribed cholesterol medication or replace it with dietary changes without medical advice.

The takeaway

Your genes may influence your cholesterol risk, but they are not the only factor. A balanced diet rich in fibre-containing foods, regular physical activity and recommended health checks can support heart health.

Read also:

Why Does India Have So Many People With Diabetes? 7 Important Reasons