High cholesterol can significantly increase the risk for stroke. A stroke or cerebrovascular accident (CVA) occurs when there is a sudden interruption in blood supply to the brain, also called an ischemic type of stroke (when there is a reduction in blood flow because of an obstruction- counts for 90% of all strokes), Stroke can also be the result of a hemorrhage, also called a hemorrhagic stroke that counts for only 10% of all stroke cases. According to the American Heart Association 700,000 Americans suffer from new or recurring strokes every year.

One of the most important reasons for lowering cholesterol is to prevent a stroke from occurring which is a dangerous condition that often leads to fatal consequences. Failing to lower cholesterol or not managing your cholesterol levels properly can significantly increase the risk for having a stroke or CVA.

We know that most cases of stroke occur when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. This in most cases happens due to the clogging of blood vessels that distribute blood to the brain. The clogging and narrowing of the arteries, is a condition called atherosclerosis, and it is I most cases the result of cholesterol being built up into artery walls. (In some cases the interruption of blood flow to the brain can be the result f high blood pressure).

The symptoms of stroke unlike those of heart attack, due to the cutting off of blood supply to the brain may not show immediately. When one experiences heart attack, the symptoms are most noticeable like: chest or arm pain, shortness of breath and so on. The manifestation of stroke due to uncontrollable cholesterol level, or high blood pressure is a long process that can continue for years without noticeable symptoms until the inevitable stroke suddenly occurs.

Stroke can lead to a myriad of health consequences. Some of them are permanent. After a stroke there can be a paralysis, speech disabilities, memory loss, eyesight reduction, walking disabilities and that damaging of other motor skills and coordination difficulties. To prevent such permanent damage as a result of stroke one must monitor blood cholesterol level regularly and make an effort to lower cholesterol levels if necessary. Drugs to lower cholesterol are always an option, although the side effects are not always worth it. Reducing cholesterol naturally through diet, exercise, supplementation and yoga are the best, most effective and safe way to lower cholesterol and eliminate the risk for stroke and other health conditions.