What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance similar to fat. It is carried through the bloodstream and is stored in many of the body's cells. Its biological role is to help create certain hormones and bile acids that help digest fat. It is essential for building cell walls in the brain and nerves, skin and muscles, the heart and liver, and elsewhere.

The body actually manufactures cholesterol itself, so it will be present even if none were consumed in foodstuffs. On average, about 75% of the total is made, while the other 25% comes from food.

Two Kinds of Cholesterol

Cholesterol is carried in the bloodstream by compounds called lipoproteins. There are two types: LDL (Low Density Lipoproteins) and HDL (High Density Lipoproteins). The first type, LDL, is the so-called bad cholesterol, HDL the good kind. Their reputations are gained from the different effect they have on arteries.

LDL (bad cholesterol) aids in the formation of plaque in arteries, causing them to narrow and harden. That condition is called atherosclerosis and is one of the main contributors to possible heart attack and stroke. HDL actually helps keep that plaque from building up on the artery walls.

How Much Is Bad?

For an average adult, less than 200 mg/dL (milligrams per decaliter, of blood that is) total cholesterol is desirable, since the lower number correlates with a lower risk of coronary heart disease (CHD).

A number from 200-239 mg/dL is considered on the high end of the gray area. A number of 240 mg/dL is high, increasing the risk of CHD to double that of someone with a number of 200 mg/dL or below.

LDL is best kept below 100 mg/dL, with 100-129 mg/dL in the range of acceptable. Anything between 130-159 mg/dL is borderline, while 160-189 mg/dL is considered high. Anything above 190 mg/dL is very high.

Summary

Overall, keeping the proper balance and level of cholesterol and triglycerides is one key to optimal health. The benefits are optimal blood pressure, low risk of CHD and improved odds of a healthy and long life.