WHAT IS CHOLESTEROL

What is cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy substance which is made in the body by the liver but is also found in some foods. It plays a vital role in how every cell works and is also needed to make Vitamin D, some hormones and bile for digestion. However, too much cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of getting heart and circulatory disease

Understanding HDL and LDL Cholesterol

• High Density Lipoproteins (HDL): This “good” cholesterol takes extra cholesterol in your blood back to your liver so your body can get rid of it.
• Low Density Lipoproteins (LDL): This “bad” cholesterol in your blood builds up in your blood vessels. This can cause your vessels to narrow, making it hard for blood to flow.
• Triglycerides: Eating too many carbohydrates can increase your triglyceride level.

Cholesterol is carried in the blood attached to proteins called lipoproteins. There are two main forms, LDL (low density lipoprotein) and HDL (high density lipoprotein). LDL cholesterol is often referred to as bad cholesterol because too much is unhealthy. HDL is often referred to as “good cholesterol” because it is protective. Knowing your levels of these can help explain your risk of heart disease. Your doctor should be able to tell you your levels of “good” and “bad” cholesterol.

Cholesterol In Our Diets

Most of our cholesterol is made by the liver, but we get some from our diet as well.  Take a look at our page on Low Cholesterol Diets & High Cholesterol Foods and for ideas for cholesterol-busting foods, then take a look at our Six Super Foods to Help Lower Cholesterol.
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that your body needs to work. It is made in the liver and found in food that comes from animals, such as meat, eggs, milk products, butter, and lard.

Too much cholesterol in your blood can be harmful to your body and can increase your risk for heart disease. You are at risk for high blood cholesterol if:
• Your body makes too much cholesterol
• You eat food high in saturated fats and cholesterol
• You have diabetes, low thyroid level called hypothyroidism, or kidney disease