Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs to function properly. It is produced by the liver and found in foods that come from animals, like meat, eggs, and dairy.
There are two main types of cholesterol:
When your cholesterol levels are out of balance, with too much LDL and not enough HDL, fatty deposits can gradually build up in your blood vessels. This is known as atherosclerosis, which narrows your blood vessels and increases your risk for heart attack and stroke.
So how do you know if your cholesterol levels are optimal?
The American Heart Association recommends getting your cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years starting at age 20, and more frequently if you have risk factors. A blood test can measure your total cholesterol as well as LDL, HDL, and triglycerides (another blood fat).
What can you do to improve cholesterol levels?
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