Fat

Fat is important to keep the body warm and pad the organs. It also is used as an energy source. Some food sources include oils, non-lean meats, dairy and fast foods.

Cholesterol

There are two main types of cholesterol: high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or "good" cholesterol) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad" cholesterol). Your body makes about 75 percent of the body's blood cholesterol; the other 25 percent comes from food, according to the American Heart Association. Dietary cholesterol can come only from animal sources.

Too Much Fat

If you consume too much fat, especially saturated fats found in butter, oils and creams, it can lead to health conditions such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes.

High Cholesterol

If your blood has too much LDL, a plaque can start to build up in your arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. High cholesterol increases your risk of coronary heart disease, heart attack and stroke.

Reduce Your Risks

A healthy diet and exercise make the best combination to lose weight and keep your cholesterol levels low. Consume healthy, unsaturated fats in nuts, olive oil and avocados. Performing exercise for at least 30 minutes daily can help you lose weight and reduce your cholesterol.

Source:

American Heart Association: What Can Cholesterol Do?

American Heart Assocation: The Two Sources of Cholesterol

Resource:

American Heart Association: About Cholesterol