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It is well known that a high cholesterol level can lead to serious complications such as heart diseases. High cholesterol is generally common in persons that have passed 50, people with weight problems, people with intestinal disorders or people with diabetes. A high level of cholesterol is the consequence of overproduction of the substance, because of liver problems, or the inability of the body to eliminate it. Beside the psychological factors that may lead to the accumulation of cholesterol we have to say that external factors may also contribute to cholesterol high levels. Among these factors we have to remember inappropriate diet, sedentary lifestyle, smoking or alcohol abuse.

You should know that the body produces the necessary amount of cholesterol in order to sustain its activity and that a high cholesterol diet can increase blood cholesterol levels. We have to say that animal origin foods are rich in cholesterol and along with them saturated foods can also harm your organism if they are taken in large amounts. In order to decrease your high levels of cholesterol you should avoid eating fats and start eating vegetables, cereals and fruits. You should also know that carbohydrates also lead to a high cholesterol level.

Specialists advise us to do physical exercises in order to keep our cholesterol to a normal level. Exercise improves blood circulation and do help in eliminating the cholesterol surplus. Exercise will not only help to regain normal levels of cholesterol but will also help in keeping a proper weight.

Smoking is believed to be the most important risk factor that leads to heart disease. Because of smoking your body allows cholesterol to deposit inside arteries where it can cause blockage, stopping bloods normal flow. It is recommended to quit smoking if your cholesterol level is high. Alcohol should also be avoided.

As long as it is found in normal limits, cholesterol is very important for the human body. It is produced by the liver in small amounts, as it is necessary in certain physiological processes. Cholesterol is also responsible for the production of hormones, testosterone and estrogen, vitamin D and bile, an important substance that helps to digest fats.

We have seen that cholesterol is useful in small amounts. It is also good to know that a large amount of cholesterol is not helpful at all. Cholesterol is not soluble in blood and that is why it deposits inside the arteries. Once deposited, it will slow down the normal blood circulation. It was proved that high levels of cholesterol increase the risk of cardio-vascular diseases and heart failure.