What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is soft, fat-like, waxy substance found your blood and in every cell in your body.

Cholesterol is an important part of a healthy body because it plays a vital role in many biochemical processes, such as the production of cell membranes and the synthesis of steroid hormones, as well as serving other necessary functions. Cholesterol does not dissolve in your blood, rather, it must be transported to and from your cells via a carrier. This carrier is called a lipoprotein.

Total cholesterol count, measured by a blood test, is made up of 4 things:

1. Low Density Lipoprotein (“LDL”) cholesterol – LDL is called the bad cholesterol because it carries cholesterol to tissues, including the arteries. Most of the cholesterol in the blood is the LDL form. Therefore, the higher the level of LDL cholesterol in the blood, the greater your risk for heart disease.
2. High Density Lipoprotein (“HDL”) cholesterol – HDL is called the good cholesterol because it carries cholesterol from tissues to the liver, which removes it from the body. A low level of HDL cholesterol increases your risk for heart disease.
3. Triglycerides – Triglycerides are another type of fat. The body produces triglycerides in the liver; and they are found in the blood and in foods.
4. Lp(a) cholesterol – Although Lp(a) cholesterol is not fully understood yet, it is thought to be another undesirable low density lipoprotein that is part of a propein called apo(a).

Facts About Cholesterol:

• Every single person has cholesterol, it’s normal!
• Every cell in your body has cholesterol!
• Approximately 75% of your total cholesterol is made in your body. That means only 25% of your total blood cholesterol levels come from your food.
• Having high blood cholesterol affects over 65 million Americans.
• It is a serious condition that increases your risk for heart disease.
• The higher your cholesterol level, the greater the risk.
• You can have high cholesterol and not know it.
• Cholesterol levels tend to elevate as you get older.
• Lowering cholesterol levels that are too high benefits you in the following ways:
  • Lessens your risk for developing heart disease
  • Reduces the chance of having a heart attack
  • Reduces your chances of dying of heart disease