Cholesterol is a form of fat that stabilises the outer membranes of cells in your body. Despite playing a crucial role in the normal functioning of the body, high levels of cholesterol make you more susceptible to developing heart diseases. Different forms of cholesterol, which include good cholesterol and bad cholesterol, greatly affect your overall health. High levels of bad cholesterol and total cholesterol, as well as low levels of good cholesterol, can raise your chances of developing cardiovascular problems.