Origin

• Cholesterol is produced naturally in the liver. Although heredity can be a contributing factor, most cases of elevated cholesterol in the body are the result of a diet high in saturated fats.
  
  

Types of Cholesterol

• Low-density lipoprotein, LDL, is commonly referred to as the "bad cholesterol" because of its tendency to attach to arterial walls. High density lipoprotein, HDL, is often called the "good cholesterol" because it acts to remove the excess bad cholesterol from the bloodstream.
  
  

Optimum Levels

• A level at or below 100 milligrams per deciliter is considered optimum for LDL cholesterol, while any level above 40 mg/dl is considered optimum for HDL cholesterol.
  
  

Warning

• Prolonged elevated cholesterol levels can lead to a buildup of plaque on artery walls, resulting in a dangerous narrowing of arteries, a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke.
  
  

Screening

• Cholesterol screening is performed by a simple blood test following a 12-hour fast. The National Cholesterol Education Program suggests that everyone over age 20 have their cholesterol tested once every five years following continued normal results.
  
  

Lowering Cholesterol

• Dietary changes and increased exercise can have a significant effect on lowering high cholesterol. When lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, statin drugs are usually indicated under a doctor's supervision. For more information on lowering cholesterol, visit the Mayo Clinic website at mayoclinic.com