Most doctors attribute heart disease to high cholesterol levels. These high levels can clog the artery walls, causing the formation of a hard, thick substance called cholesterol plaque. This plaque thickens the artery walls and narrows the arteries in a process called atherosclerosis. Cholesterol is found mainly in foods that come from animals, including meat, poultry, fish and dairy products. Organ meats, such as liver, are especially high in cholesterol.
Vegetables contain no cholesterol.
Individuals over age 20 should have their blood cholesterol levels tested every five years. The chance of developing heart disease increases in proportion to the degree of cholesterol elevation. Additionally, if you have a family history of coronary heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure, you should monitor your cholesterol levels. Studies also show that individuals who already have a high cholesterol level can benefit from using one of a group of medications called statin drugs. Other effective means of lowering your blood cholesterol levels are changing eating habits, losing weight, stopping smoking and exercising regularly.