How Sugar Affects CholesterolConsuming too much sugar, even for just a few weeks, increases your cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease. Here are some highlights from the latest research into sugar's effects on cholesterol:According to research, high sugar intake may increase levels of the following fats in the body: triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL, also known as "bad" cholesterol), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL, also known as "good" cholesterol). levels of the following fats in the body: triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density cholesterol (LDL, also known as "bad" cholesterol), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL, also known as "good" cholesterol). Healthy adults with diets high in added sugar had slightly higher total cholesterol levels than those with diets lower in added sugar. had slightly higher total cholesterol levels than those with diets lower in added sugar.