The human body produces the substance known as cholesterol. The levels of cholesterol a person has is determined by the amount found in the blood. While a person who is overweight may not necessarily have high levels of cholesterol, a correlation between the two does exist naturally. Elevated levels of cholesterol are the result of eating high cholesterol foods, and a blood chemistry test can show this.

Genetics are believed by some doctors to be a factor in terms of cholesterol levels as well. The evidence to support this theory is based on individuals who fall in the normal weight range but still suffer from this condition. Another factor is a person’s metabolic rate, which tells the rate at which your burn calories.

Living a sedentary lifestyle, eating high cholesterol foods, and being overweight are factors that can result in serious consequences, possibly death, for people who already are affected by cholesterol. Exercising consistently helps rid of fats and maintain uninterrupted blood flow throughout the body, so this is a critical element in terms of lowering cholesterol.

The Arteries

The blood stream shows an accurate portrayal of the consequences of high cholesterol. Blood samples are used to determine levels of HDL and LDL. Arteries become hardened and fatty substances are deposited when an excess of bad cholesterol is present in the blood. In addition to the fatty deposits gathering, other elements and calcium also accumulate in the blood that contribute to blockage. Heart problems and stroke can result from deposits forming since it constricts, and eventually stops blood flow completely.

Heightened blood pressure is a byproduct of increased deposits in arteries since it slows down blood flow. Of course, high blood pressure can then lead to further complications involving the heart if nothing is done to treat it. High cholesterol mixed in with diabetes can also create havoc in the blood stream. Anyone who has high cholesterol and any other underlying conditions should see a doctor about further complications that may occur.

While having high cholesterol can be a problem, the positive is that something can be done to lower it. Dietary and lifestyle changes will go a long way toward being healthy.