Our bodies naturally produce cholesterol. It is made in the liver, helps form cell membranes, creates some of the hormones we need and even helps our bodies digest fat. Cholesterol is found in every cell of our bodies. It is in our skin, nerves, muscles and even our brain.

On top of the cholesterol that is naturally produced in the body, we consume additional amounts in many of the foods we eat. Other factors that can play a role in high cholesterol are age, weight, heredity and even stress.

Often referred to as bad cholesterol and good cholesterol, there are two types found in our bodies. One type carries cholesterol back to the liver where it is broken down. This is the good type or HDL cholesterol. The other type, LDL, does the reverse in that it carries it in the bloodstream and away from your liver.

When excessive amounts of cholesterol are present in the bloodstream, it adheres to the vessel walls and hardens the arteries restricting the amount of blood flow to the heart and brain and increasing the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

If your cholesterol level is too high there are some things you can try to help lower it and reduce the risks associated with it. For many people following a diet low in cholesterol, getting exercise and reducing weight will be all that is required to lower the levels.

Reducing saturated fats in your daily diet and eating foods that lower cholesterol, such as fish, oats, whole grains and yogurt can assist you in bringing your levels under control.

If you have inherited your high cholesterol levels or your body is simply producing too much, then only changing your lifestyle won't be enough. There are a number of different types of medications on the market and these can be discussed with your doctor.

There are several things that can put you at a higher risk of having a stroke or heart attack, but high cholesterol is one of those things that with some simple changes you may be able to control. If your levels are too high or even just borderline you may add years to your life just by making some simple changes!