Since high cholesterol has no symptoms, you may be putting yourself at risk without even realizing it. "Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood. Your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, but high levels of cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease," says the Mayo Clinic. "Factors that can increase your risk of bad cholesterol include" the following. Read on for what the Clinic says—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You Had COVID and Didn't Even Know It . Shutterstock "Eating saturated fat, found in animal products, and trans fats, found in some commercially baked cookies and crackers and microwave popcorn, can raise your cholesterol level," says the Mayo Clinic. "Foods that are high in cholesterol, such as red meat and full-fat dairy products, will also increase your cholesterol." Shutterstock "Having a body mass index (BMI) of...