Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fatty substance or sterol found in all animal fats, butter, egg yolk, organ meats (liver, brain, tongue) and shellfish. It is the precursor for Vitamin D and sex hormones and is important for the production of myelin as well as the transport and absorption of fatty acids. Although the body needs cholesterol, high levels of cholesterol have been linked to certain diseases, particularly atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). HDL-type cholesterol is sometimes referred to as "good cholesterol" because, unlike the other types - LDL and VLDL - high levels of HDL-type cholesterol may actually provide protection against heart attack. Exercise and a diet high in fish may improve the HDL level.