Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance that is present in all parts of the body, including the nervous system, skin, muscle, liver, intestines and heart. It is made by the body and obtained from animal products in the diet. Cholesterol is manufactured in the liver and is needed for normal body functions, including the production of hormones, bile acid and Vitamin D.

Excessive cholesterol in the blood contributes to atherosclerosis and subsequent heart disease. The risk of developing heart disease or atherosclerosis increases as the level of blood cholesterol increases.

The body makes all the cholesterol it needs, so any extra cholesterol or fat in the diet causes plaque buildup inside blood vessels.

A low-fat diet, exercise and losing weight can reduce your cholesterol.

• Try to avoid a lot of fat, since this increases your cholesterol and risk of high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, heart disease, stroke and some types of cancers. Choose lean meats, fish, poultry without skin and low-fat dairy products. At restaurants, look for broiled or baked rather than fried foods. Try the salad bars more often, but limit the amount of salad dressing you use to keep down the fat and calories. Look for milk-based high-calcium foods with reduced fat.

• Eat fruits and vegetables (at least five servings of fruit and vegetables each day) to reduce your risks of these diseases.

• Eat whole-grain breads and cereals, dried beans and peas, vegetables and fruits. Eating plenty of these fiber-rich foods may reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease.

• Exercise regularly. Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. Break this time into 10 minutes three times a day if you cannot find the time.

High cholesterol levels can lead to heart diseases such as heart failure or heart attack.

Click here to read about Ways to Improve Your Cholesterol.

It is important to have your cholesterol checked by your doctor who can discuss your heart health with you. Cardiac screenings also are available at 4 Your Heart. To make an appointment, call toll-free 1.877.UT.CARES (1.877.882.2737).