Cholesterol

What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a soft, waxy-like substance that is found in the bloodstream among the lipids, or fats. It's used to form cell membranes and some hormones, and is needed for some other functions of the body. But a high level of blood cholesterol is a risk for coronary heart disease, which can lead to heart attack. Cholesterol can't dissolve in the blood and needs to be transported by lipoproteins.

LDL
Low-density lipoprotein or LDL is the major carrier in the blood. When too much LDL is carried through the bloodstream, it and other substances can build up and form plaque which hardens and lines the walls of the artery. When too much plaque is formed, it can cause a clot and block the blood flow causing a heart attack. If the plaque buildup forms in the arteries that connect the blood flow to the brain, it can lead to a stroke. LDL is considered “bad” cholesterol because high levels lead to an increased risk of heart disease.

HDL
Most experts believe that HDL is “good” cholesterol because it tends to carry cholesterol back to the liver where it's disposed of. Medical experts also believe that HDL may remove cholesterol from plaque buildups and thus leading them to grow more slowly.

Limiting your daily cholesterol intake to less than 300 milligrams can help prevent high cholesterol. Your liver produces a certain amount of good cholesterol, and also aids in disposing of the bad. In some people, physical activity can increase the levels of HDL. Smoking decreases your levels of HDL and is one of the major risk factors for heart disease.

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