Cholesterol is a word we hear often in health conversations usually with concern. But did you know that cholesterol isn’t all bad? In fact, your body needs cholesterol to function properly.

This article explains what cholesterol is, the difference between the good and bad types, and how to manage it to protect your heart and overall health.

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found in your blood. Your body uses it to build cells, produce hormones, and make vitamin D. Your liver makes most of the cholesterol your body needs, but you also get some from the food you eat.

Types Of Cholesterol

There are two main types:

1. HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) – “Good” cholesterol     – HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and carries it to the liver for removal.   2. LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) – “Bad” cholesterol     – Too much LDL can cause plaque buildup in arteries, leading to heart disease or stroke.

Another important number is Triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. High levels can increase heart risk, especially when combined with high LDL or low HDL.

Why High Cholesterol Is A Problem.

When there’s too much LDL in your blood, it can stick to artery walls and form plaque. Over time, this narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of:

– Heart attacks 

– Strokes 

– High blood pressure 

– Peripheral artery disease

What Causes High Cholesterol?

– Unhealthy diet (high in saturated fats and trans fats)  – Lack of physical activity  – Smoking  – Obesity  – Genetics – some people inherit a tendency for high cholesterol  – Certain health conditions like diabetes or thyroid problems

How To Check Your Cholesterol

A blood test called a lipid panel measures:

– Total cholesterol 

– LDL 

– HDL 

– Triglycerides

Adults should get tested at least every 4–6 years, or more often if there’s a family history or other risk factors.

How To Manage Or Lower Cholesterol

1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

– Increase: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, fish, nuts 

– Reduce: red meat, fried foods, butter, full-fat dairy, processed snacks 

– Add healthy fats: olive oil, avocado, omega-3-rich fish

2. Exercise Regularly

– At least 30 minutes of moderate activity, 5 days a week (e.g., walking, cycling, swimming)

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

– Even small weight loss can help lower LDL and raise HDL

4. Quit Smoking

– Smoking lowers HDL and damages blood vessels

5. Limit Alcohol

– Excessive drinking can raise triglycerides

6. Take Medications if Needed

– Doctors may prescribe statins or other drugs if lifestyle changes aren’t enough

 Cholesterol is essential for life — but when it’s out of balance, it becomes a silent threat to your heart and health. The good news? High cholesterol is often preventable and manageable with healthy habits, regular check-ups, and in some cases, medication.

Protect your heart. Know your numbers. Live smart.

BY- ADENOLA ENIOLA.