What is cholesterol and why do we need it?

Cholesterol is a lipid (natural fat) that’s carried in the blood. It is a soft waxy substance. According to studies, cholesterol that is made by the liver accounts for more than 70% of our total cholesterol and only 30% is absorbed directly from cholesterol-rich foods such as eggs, dairy products and shellfish.

Why do we need Cholesterol? Cholesterol is essential for the formation of cell membranes and hormones. It plays a part in the production of steroid hormones (such as Estrogen, Testosterone and Cortisone), the transportation of fats around the body, the creation of Vitamin D (vital for strong bones and teeth) and to build cell membranes.

Our body needs cholesterol and it is synthesized in the liver. The problem isn’t the cholesterol itself but in the oxidation of the excessive cholesterol – particularly the “bad “ LDL cholesterol which contributes to plaque build up in the arteries. The food we eat (particularly the saturated fat) can elevate LDL. An oxidation of excess LDL cholesterol can accumulate in the arteries that feed the heart and brain and this can lead to a heart attack. (The “good” HDL cholesterol contributes by taking away excess cholesterol)