Cholesterol describes one type of fat found in the human body. Total cholesterol includes the amount of two types of cholesterol found in the blood -- low-density lipoprotein, also known as LDL and high-density lipoprotein, known as HDL. Cells within the body produce approximately 75 percent of all the cholesterol in the blood while certain types of foods contribute the other 25 percent, according to the American Heart Association.
Lipoproteins
Lipoprotein describes a specialized type of protein that can transport lipids -- fatty substances, such as cholesterol. The body produces four main types of lipoproteins, which differ based on their density and the amount of lipid they can carry. When discussing cholesterol levels, three lipoproteins, including the protein commonly referred to as LDL, play vital roles.
Liver
The liver plays an important role in the production and regulation of cholesterol in the body. Liver cells produce the lipoprotein known as very low-density lipoprotein, or VLDL. The VLDL delivers an energy source known as triacylglycerol to the cells in the body. As it loses the triacylglycerol, it becomes denser and when it returns to the liver the cells rearrange it into LDL. The LDL then binds cholesterol and delivers it to cells throughout the body that use it to produce hormones.
Saturated Fats
Saturated fat describes a specific type of fat classified as such because the carbon atoms are saturated with hydrogen atoms. Because of this feature, saturated fats harden at room temperature. Consuming saturated fats contributes to the level of cholesterol, specifically LDL cholesterol, in the blood. Therefore the American Heart Association recommends saturated fats account for no more than 7 percent of your total daily calories.
Trans Fats
Because the human body cannot process trans fats -- fats produced by adding hydrogen to unsaturated fats to make them saturated fats, doctors consider this the worst type of fat. Consuming trans fats also contributes to increase the level of LDL cholesterol in the blood. To help keep your blood vessels and heart healthy, limit your intake of trans fats to 1 percent or less of your daily calories.
Risks
When LDL binds cholesterol it keeps the cholesterol in the bloodstream. As cholesterol levels increase, the amount in the blood increases and allows the cholesterol to accumulate. The buildup of cholesterol in the blood vessels forms a substance known as plaque, which restricts the flow of blood and causes scar tissue to form which makes the arteries become hard -- a condition known as atherosclerosis. It is therefore important to keep LDL levels low to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease.
