Final answer:
Saturated fat is the dietary lipid most likely to increase cholesterol levels, found in animal products like meat and dairy. Trans fats also contribute to higher bad cholesterol (LDL) and lower good cholesterol (HDL). Dietary changes can reduce cholesterol and lower heart disease risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The dietary lipid component that appears to be most likely to cause an increase in cholesterol is saturated fat. A diet high in saturated fat and cholesterol can contribute to higher blood cholesterol levels, promoting the formation of plaque within the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. It is mostly found in animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy. To reduce cholesterol levels and the associated health risks, dietary substitutions of unsaturated fat for saturated fat, as well as a reduction in trans fats, are recommended.
Another contributor to increased cholesterol levels are trans fatty acids. These are particularly harmful as they tend to raise 'bad' cholesterol (LDL) levels and decrease 'good' cholesterol (HDL) levels. Monitoring the intake of these fats by reading food labels and making dietary adjustments is important in managing cholesterol levels.