Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance found among the lipids (fats) in the bloodstream and in all your body’s cells. It’s an important part of a healthy body because it’s used to form cell membranes, some hormones and is needed for other functions.
Types Of Cholesterol
LDL (low density lipoprotein)
Most of the body’s cholesterol is transported as LDL. This is made up of mostly fat and a small amount of protein.
HDL (high density lipoprotein)
A small amount of cholesterol is transported as HDL, which is mostly made up of protein and a small amount of fat.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are a different type of fat, which mostly come from fats in your food. Energy that is eaten and not used immediately is converted into triglycerides and transported to fat cells for storage.
Cholesterol and Diet
People get cholesterol in two ways. The body — mainly the liver — produces varying amounts, usually about 1,000 milligrams a day. Foods also can contain cholesterol. Foods from animals (especially egg yolks, meat, poultry, shellfish and whole- and reduced-fat milk and dairy products) contain it.
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your body. In fact, it is needed for the body to function normally. Your body makes enough cholesterol for its needs. When there is too much cholesterol in your body.
Cholesterol and Food
One of the biggest misconceptions people have is that food’s packed with cholesterol. In fact, very little cholesterol is found in foods. The main culprits are eggs, offal and shellfish.