Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the fats (lipids) of the blood. While the body needs cholesterol to continue producing healthy cells, having high cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease. High cholesterol can deposit fat in your blood vessels. Over time, these deposits make the blood flow difficult through the arteries. Then, it is possible that the heart no longer receives all the oxygen-rich blood it needs, which increases the risk of suffering a heart attack. The fact that less blood reaches the brain can cause a stroke. Avoiding and controlling high cholesterol is essential.