'Good' and 'Bad' cholesterol

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a type of fat found in the body. Most of it is made in our bodies by the liver, but some also comes from the saturated fat in the food you eat.

Cholesterol makes up a vital part of the cells in your body, but too much can be bad for you.

It is important to note that there are two types of cholesterol.

• 'BAD' cholesterol (known as low density lipoprotein: LDL)
• 'GOOD' cholesterol (known as high density lipoprotein: HDL)

'BAD' LDL-cholesterol can block up our arteries, whereas 'GOOD' HDL-cholesterol carries excess cholesterol away from our arteries and back to the liver, where it is broken down and recycled.

So, in terms of the potential damaging effects of cholesterol, what is important is the proportion of these two types of cholesterol in our blood. Download the free ChoLESSterol booklet for further information.

Why do I need to know my cholesterol number?

Cholesterol levels are usually measured as ‘bad’ cholesterol and total cholesterol. Cholesterol is measured in millimoles per litre of blood, which is usually shortened to mmol/L.

Raised cholesterol is not an illness in itself, but it is associated with a number of diseases. Like high blood pressure, a raised level of total cholesterol or a raised level of 'BAD' LDL-cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease and strokes. That's why it is important to KNOW YOUR NUMBER as this will allow you to manage your cholesterol levels.