About Cholesterol
Cholesterol is carried around the body in the blood by proteins. Cholesterol and proteins combined are known as lipoproteins and there are three types:
High density lipoprotein (HDL) - Sometimes referred to as “good cholesterol”. HDL carries cholesterol from the cells around the body to the liver where it is broken down or passed out of the body as waste.
Low density lipoprotein (LDL) – sometimes referred to as “bad cholesterol”. LDL carries cholesterol to the cells that need it, however, if the cholesterol starts to build up in walls of the vessels it can lead to disease of the arteries.
Triglycerides – another type of lipid (fatty substance) found in the blood. Triglycerides are produced in the liver and can also be found in foods such as meat, dairy and cooking oils. It has two purposes; it is either taken up by the cells and tissues and turned into energy or it is stored as fat.