Having a high cholesterol level is a major risk factor for heart diseases and stroke. Therefore it is very important to understand and know your cholesterol level in order to maintain your heart health.

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance in your body that is made in the liver from digested fats and is carried in the blood. Your body makes enough cholesterol that it need. So if the cholesterol level is too high, it is deposited in arteries, including those of the heart, which can lead to narrowing or blocking of the arteries and to heart disease. (Cholesterol which is build up on the artery walls of your body is called plaque. Over time, plaque can cause the arteries to become narrow, which is called atherosclerosis). If an artery that supplies blood to the muscles in your heart becomes blocked, a heart attack can occur. If an artery that supplies blood to your brain becomes blocked, a stroke can occur.

Since high blood cholesterol does not create any signs or symptoms, you may not know when your cholesterol level is more than what is needed for the body. Therefore it is important to have it checked to stay healthy no matter what age or gender. Cholesterol is measured in milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL). A lipoprotein profile can be done to measure several different kinds of cholesterol as well as triglycerides (another kind of fat found in the blood). LDL or Low-density lipoprotein is the "bad" cholesterol, as it blocks the arteries. HDL or High-density lipoprotein is the "good" cholesterol, as it protects the arteries from clogging.

A number of things can affect the cholesterol levels in your blood. However it can be controlled and there are many things that can be done to maintained it in the normal range required for you. (It is wise to seek the advice of a doctor to learn how much your normal cholesterol levels should be).

Diet: Cholesterol is found in foods such as egg yolks, meat and dairy products. Avoid saturated and trans fats, which can raise cholesterol levels. Junk foods and most snacks is a major health hazard. So get enough soluble fiber in the diet which can help lower cholesterol. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fish promotes to heart health. Always maintain a healthy diet to keep normal blood cholesterol levels.

Weight and Physical Inactivity: Lack of physical activities lead to weight gain which tends to increase LDL levels, lowers HDL levels, and increases total cholesterol level. Maintain a healthy weight to lower blood cholesterol levels.
 
Genetic Factors: High blood cholesterol can run in families. An inherited genetic condition results in very high LDL cholesterol levels. It is also possible that high blood cholesterol levels within a family are due to factors such as common diet.
 
Age and Gender: The LDL cholesterol levels tend to rise as people get older. Men are likely to have lower HDL levels than women. Younger women tend to have lower LDL levels than men, but higher levels at older ages.

Tobacco: Smoking is a major risk for heart disease and stroke. It injures blood vessels and leads to rapid hardening of the arteries. It is wise not to start smoking if you already don’t.

Medications:  There are several types of medicines that can help to lower cholesterol. But before using any drugs their use needs to be checked by a doctor on a usual basis. If healthy eating and exercise don't work after 6 months to 1 year, it is important to consult a doctor for usage of medication to lower your cholesterol level.

High cholesterol level is a major risk factor of heart diseases which is a very common cause of death in the world today. Therefore always be aware of the changes in your body and take proper care of it. Adopt healthy lifestyles and don’t neglect to check on any suspicious changes. Lifestyle changes and proper medications help maintain normal cholesterol levels and leads to a better health.