Which dietary factor is primarily associated with high cholesterol levels?

Saturated fat intake is primarily associated with high cholesterol levels because it plays a significant role in the way the body processes cholesterol. When you consume foods high in saturated fats, such as fatty cuts of meat, full-fat dairy products, and certain oils, the liver tends to produce more low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. High levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.

While trans fats are also known to elevate cholesterol levels and can negatively impact heart health, saturated fats have a more direct correlation with increased LDL cholesterol and are often the focal point in dietary guidelines aimed at managing cholesterol levels. Protein intake and carbohydrate intake do not have the same strong link to cholesterol levels compared to saturated fats.