Cholesterol has been identified as a key risk factor for coronary heart disease, which often can lead to a heart attack. To keep your heart healthy, it’s important to understand what cholesterol is, where it comes from and the ways you can reduce the risk of health problems caused by high cholesterol levels.

Cholesterol helps form cell membranes and is a natural substance in the body. It circulates in the blood along with protein, but high levels of cholesterol can contribute to heart disease because cholesterol may build up in the arteries connected to the heart and brain. This build up can rupture and clots can form, leading to a heart attack or stroke.

The body produces about 75 percent of the cholesterol found in your blood. The other 25 percent is consumed through what you eat. Foods, especially those containing saturated fatty acids, can raise the cholesterol levels, increasing the risk for heart disease. Other health factors, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, can also increase that risk.

There are two main types of cholesterol, commonly referred to as “good’’ cholesterol and “bad’’ cholesterol. The “good’’ cholesterol is known as HDL or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The “bad’’ cholesterol we attempt to limit is known as LDL or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. A person’s cholesterol levels can be determined through a blood test ordered by a doctor.

According to the American Heart Association, more than 100 million Americans have high cholesterol levels and every 26 seconds an American will suffer a coronary event. So it’s important to be aware of your cholesterol levels and to make any necessary changes to your lifestyle to help reduce the risk of a cardiovascular event from becoming a problem.

Phytosterols, a natural plant-based ingredient, have been proven to lower cholesterol. Phytosterols reduce a person’s LDL cholesterol level by helping block the absorption of cholesterol from the digestive tract. The FDA has recognized the use of phytosterols (at least 800mg a day in divided doses) as part of a low-fat diet to cut the risk of heart disease. Also known as plant sterols, phytosterols are sometimes incorporated into food products such as margarine, mayonnaise, yogurt and low-fat milk.

In addition, there are other steps you can take to help reduce cholesterol and prevent heart disease. A daily exercise routine is also important, whether it’s walking or jogging or playing a sport. So is eating a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Try to eat foods low in saturated and trans fats. Do not smoke and limit exposure to secondhand smoke. Work with your doctor for the best ways you can reduce cholesterol and fight heart disease.