What is High Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is made by our bodies.  In fact, our bodies make all we will ever need.  Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all cells of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to work the right way.  Cholesterol and your blood are two different substances and don't mix well.  For you body to carriy cholesterol through the body, it is first surrounded by lipidprotiens.  There are two types of lipidproteins Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)  & High-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is sometimes called bad cholesterol. LDL is a smaller bundle of bundle of cholesterol, fats & protein. High LDL cholesterol leads to a buildup of cholesterol in arteries. The higher the LDL level in your blood, the greater chance you have of getting heart disease.
 
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is sometimes called good cholesterol. HDL carries cholesterol from other parts of your body back to your liver. The liver removes the cholesterol from your body. The higher your HDL cholesterol level, the lower your chance of getting heart disease.
 
There are many factors that can contribute to high blood pressure.  Some factors like family history, gender or age you have no control over.  However, there are many factors that you can control, such as what you eat, your weight and physical activity.
 
Lets focus on what you can change!  For example, what you eat! 

Certain foods have types of fat that raise your cholesterol level. 

• Saturated fat raises your LDL cholesterol level more than anything else in your diet.
• Trans fatty acids (trans fats) are made when vegetable oil is "hydrogenated" to harden it. Trans fatty acids also raise cholesterol levels.
• Cholesterol is found in foods that come from animal sources, for example, egg yolks, meat, and cheese.
• Your weight. Being overweight tends to increase your LDL level, lower your HDL level, and increase your total cholesterol level.
• Your activity. Lack of regular exercise can lead to weight gain and raise your LDL cholesterol level. Regular exercise can help you lose weight and lower your LDL level. It can also help you raise your HDL level.