Browsing: Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is essential for the normal functioning of the body. It is found in every cell and is vital for producing cell membranes, certain hormones, and vitamin D. Cholesterol is both produced by the liver and absorbed from dietary sources, particularly animal-based foods like meat, dairy, and eggs. While cholesterol plays several crucial roles in the body, having high levels of it in the blood can lead to health problems. There are two main types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in the walls of arteries and form plaques that restrict or block blood flow, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), known as “good” cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream. Managing cholesterol levels typically involves a combination of diet, exercise, and sometimes medication to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.