9.8: Cholesterol – Made by you for you!

Cholesterol is primarily produced by the body and is important for synthesizing Vitamin D, bile salts, and reproductive hormones. Cholesterol is also an essential component of the cell membrane. Minimal intake of cholesterol is consumed through food like animal sources, cheese, or egg yolks. An increased build-up of cholesterol can contribute to the build-up of plaque and lead to many coronary artery disease complications. Factors that can contribute to high cholesterol include unhealthy eating habits with increased intake of processed and fried foods, lack of physical activity, and smoking.

The liver produces lipoproteins that help carry fat and cholesterol through your bloodstream. Two commonly discussed lipoproteins include low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL is known as the “bad” cholesterol and helps contribute to the build-up of plaque in your arteries’ walls. HDL cholesterol is known as the “good” cholesterol and helps remove cholesterol and transport it back to the liver.

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