What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell. The body needs it to build cells and make hormones and vitamin D, but too much in the blood can raise heart disease risk.
The liver makes most of the cholesterol the body needs. The rest comes from animal foods such as meat, eggs and dairy. Cholesterol travels through the blood in packages called lipoproteins. LDL, low-density lipoprotein, is often called bad cholesterol, because high levels can build up in artery walls.
HDL, high-density lipoprotein, is known as good cholesterol, because it helps carry cholesterol away from the arteries back to the liver. Over time, a buildup of LDL can form plaques that narrow the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Keeping it healthy
High cholesterol usually causes no symptoms, so a blood test is the only way to know your levels. Eating less saturated fat, more fiber, staying active, not smoking and keeping a healthy weight can help. Some people also need medicines such as statins, depending on their overall risk.
Did You Know?
Some people have very high cholesterol because of an inherited condition called familial hypercholesterolemia, which can affect them even when they are young and fit.
This answer is general information, not medical advice. For a personal health question, talk to a doctor.