The Effects of High Cholesterol on the Body

Our bodies need healthy levels of cholesterol to function. Cholesterol is a fatty substance made by the liver and distributed throughout the body. It allows our bodies to make vitamin D and hormones, and makes up bile acids. We also get less than 25 percent of our body’s cholesterol from the foods we eat, especially animal fats.

High cholesterol means you have a lot more cholesterol in your blood than you need. Most people who have high cholesterol don’t have any obvious symptoms. A simple blood test can tell you if you have high cholesterol. If you do have high cholesterol, dietary changes, exercise, and targeted medications can help lower it and reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

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Do You Know Your Cholesterol Levels?

Approximately 1 in 7 American adults and 1 in 10 American children have high cholesterol. Do you know your cholesterol levels?

September is National Cholesterol Education Month--a good time to get your blood cholesterol checked and learn more about the importance of keeping your cholesterol at healthy levels.

Risk Factors for High Cholesterol
The Difference Between "Bad" and "Good" Cholesterol
Cholesterol Medicines -- Types, Side Effects, and Warnings
What You Can Do to Lower Your Cholesterol