Cholesterol

Definition

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your blood. It's essential for building cell membranes and producing hormones but should be kept in balance.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Cholesterol is a sterol, a type of lipid molecule biosynthesized by animal cells. It is an essential structural component of cell membranes, where it modulates membrane fluidity, and serves as a precursor for the synthesis of steroid hormones, bile acids, and vitamin D.

Benefits

• Essential for the formation and maintenance of cell membranes.
• Precursor to important steroid hormones like cortisol, aldosterone, and sex hormones.
• Necessary for the production of bile acids, which help in digesting fats.

Examples

• Eggs
• Cheese
• Red meat
• Shellfish like shrimp and lobster
• Processed meats such as bacon and sausages

Additional Information

• Known issues: Consuming too much saturated and trans fats can raise cholesterol levels, leading to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Related Terms

• LDL
• HDL
• Triglycerides
• Saturated Fat
• Trans Fat

References

• Cholesterol: What you need to know.
• Dietary Fats and Cardiovascular Disease: A Presidential Advisory From the American Heart Association.