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Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance found among the lipids (fats)
in the bloodstream and in all your body's cells. It is normal to have
cholesterol. It's an important part of a healthy body because it's
used to form cell membranes, some hormones and other needed tissues.
But too high a level of cholesterol in the blood is a major risk for
coronary heart disease, which leads to heart attack. It's also a risk factor for stroke. Hypercholesterolemia
is the term for high levels of blood cholesterol.
You get cholesterol in two ways. Your body makes some of it, and the rest comes from animal products that you eat, such as meats, poultry, fish, eggs, butter, cheese and whole milk. Food from plants like fruits, vegetables and cereals do not have cholesterol. Cholesterol and other fats can't dissolve in the blood. They have to be transported to and from the cells by special carriers called lipoproteins. There are two kinds that you need to be concerned with. Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, is known as the "bad" cholesterol. Too much LDL cholesterol can clog the arteries to your heart and increase your risk of heart attack. High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is known as the "good" cholesterol. Your body makes HDL cholesterol for your protection. It travels away from your arteries. Studies suggest that high levels of HDL cholesterol reduce your risk of heart attack. To learn more about LDL and HDL cholesterol, click here.
© 2000 American Heart Association, Inc. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use prohibited. The information contained in this American Heart Association (AHA) Web site is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment, and the AHA recommends consultation with your doctor or healthcare professional. |
