'Good' and 'bad' cholesterol

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a type of fat (also referred to as a lipid) found in all of us. In fact, it is an essential compound whose important roles include making cells (the body’s 'building blocks') and hormones (which act as important chemical messengers in the body).

Cholesterol is transported around the different parts of the body by proteins. Our body makes its own cholesterol in the liver, but a small amount is obtained from our diet.

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 is necessary, but becomes 'bad' when there is too much of it. It 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.

Why do I need to know my cholesterol number?

Your cholesterol number indicates the total level of cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol levels are usually measured as TOTAL CHOLESTEROL LEVELS (total amount of 'GOOD' and 'BAD' cholesterol). Raised cholesterol is not an illness in itself, but it is associated with a number of diseases. While many people will benefit from managing their cholesterol, it is especially important if you have CKD, so it's essential to be armed with the right knowledge. That's why it is important to KNOW YOUR NUMBER as this will allow you to manage your cholesterol levels.