Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is made naturally in the body and is in foods that we consume. The liver and some cells in the body make most of the cholesterol, with the remainder coming from food sources. The body needs some cholesterol, but too much can have negative health consequences.
Function
Cholesterol made in the body comes from the liver. It travels in the body on lipoproteins, which are made up of fat and protein. Cholesterol is used in the body's tissues and it makes some hormones that the body needs.
Health
High blood cholesterol levels can cause buildup in the arteries and lead to heart disease, stroke and inflammation of tissues and organs in the body.
Sources
Cholesterol in food comes only from animal sources, whether it is in dairy, some shellfish or protein foods. Choosing lower fat or fat-free versions may reduce cholesterol or fat content of these foods. The Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) of the National Cholesterol Education Program recommends maintaining a total blood cholesterol level of less than 200 mg/dl (milligrams per deciliter).
Trans Fats
Food manufacturers often use additives called trans fats. Trans fats are made from liquid vegetable oil and are made more solid and shelf-stable with the addition of hydrogen. These fats are found in some snack crackers, peanut butter and other processed foods and can increase the blood cholesterol level. Although a food label may state that it has no trans fats, it may still contain up to 0.5 g per serving and still show 0 g of trans fats. The best way to check for trans fats is to review the ingredient label for any type of hydrogenated oil.
Saturated Fats
Intake of saturated fats can produce cholesterol in the body. Most saturated fats come from animal products like dairy and meat, but tropical oils like palm and coconut contain some as well. With recent media attention being given to trans fats, some food companies are using palm oil or coconut oil in its place. Saturated fats can also raise blood cholesterol levels. The ingredient label will list whether tropical oils are present.
LDL
LDL, or low density lipoprotein, is the less healthful component of cholesterol and is often called "bad" cholesterol. ATP III guidelines recommend LDL levels below 100 mg/dl as the optimal level.
HDL
High density lipoprotein, also referred to as HDL, is the "good" cholesterol and is healthful for the body. According the ATP III findings, HDL level is best at more than 40 mg/dl for males and more than 50 mg/dl for females.
