A decade ago cholesterol was an unfamiliar term outside of the medical profession. Today, most health-conscious people know that a high blood cholesterol level is unhealthy, but the role of cholesterol is a complex issue and it is not simply the measurement of total cholesterol that is important but the relationship between "Good" cholesterol or HDL and "Bad" cholesterol or LDL. The information that follows explains the relationship between cholesterol and health in easily understandable terms, so that you can use the information to help protect your health.

What Is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is an essential component of certain hormones, body structures, and digestive acids. Cholesterol is also found naturally in certain foods such as: Red meat, Whole-milk products and Egg yolks.

Why Do I Need To Be Concerned About Cholesterol?
If the cells are given more cholesterol than they can use, they have no way of getting rid of the excess. The unused cholesterol can form deposits in the coronary arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart. This condition, known arteriosclerosis, is the leading cause of coronary heart disease. Reducing a high cholesterol level can reduce the chance of a heart attack. Therefore, evidence indicates that monitoring whole cholesterol and HDL is in the interest of everyone.

What's The Difference Between "Good And Bad" Cholesterol?
HDL (High Density Lipoprotein)and LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein), are types of protein molecules that carry cholesterol throughout the body. LDL is called "bad" because it deposits cholesterol in the coronary arteries thereby increasing the risk of coronary heart disease. HDL is deemed "good" because it removes cholesterol from blood circulation, actually decreasing the risk. The ratio of HDL to total cholesterol is very important. The ratio should be less that 4. This can be achieved by increasing the level of HDL or lowering the level of LDL.