A tear or rupture in the plaque may cause a blood clot to form. Such a clot can block the flow of blood or break free and plug an artery downstream. If the flow of blood to a part of your heart is stopped, you'll have a heart attack. If blood flow to a part of your brain stops, a stroke is imminent. Excess weight increases your triglycerides.
Cholesterol naturally occurs in foods made from animals such as meat, eggs and cheese.
Saturated and trans fats raise blood cholesterol levels. Polyunsaturated fats lower blood cholesterol but seem susceptible to oxidation. Over time, oxidation speeds the buildup of plaques inside your arteries. Monounsaturated fats may help lower blood cholesterol and are resistant to oxidation. Cigarette smoking damages the walls of your blood vessels, making them prone to accumulate fatty deposits.