What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that occurs naturally in all parts of the body. The body needs cholesterol for digesting dietary fats, making hormones, building cell walls and other important jobs. Why is having too much cholesterol bad? If you have too much cholesterol in your bloodstream, the extra is deposited in arteries, including those that serve the heart. And when these arteries become narrowed or clogged by cholesterol and fat deposits, they cannot supply enough blood to the heart. The result is heart disease - the number one killer of both men and women in this country, and one of the more serious complications in people with diabetes, according to the ADA.

What's the difference between "bad" and "good" cholesterol?

Your risk of heart disease is mainly determined by the type and quantity of lipoproteins/cholesterol in your blood. There are three types of cholesterol: LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) carries the "bad" cholesterol in the blood, and is the main source of harmful fatty buildup in blood vessels. HDL (High-density lipoprotein) helps prevent cholesterol buildup in blood vessels by carrying the "good" cholesterol back to the liver, where it can be eliminated. Triglycerides are a form of fat carried through the bloodstream. Having a high triglyceride count may increase the risk of heart disease.

How can I lower my blood cholesterol levels?

First, ask your doctor what steps you can take to lower your blood cholesterol. These may include: Changing eating habits to reduce saturated fat and cholesterol Being more physically active Maintaining your proper weight Your doctor may also prescribe a cholesterol-lowering medication in addition to these heart healthy life habits.

LIPID GOALS* (for non-pregnant adults)

Lipids (mg/dL) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cholesterol <200 LDL-C <100 HDL-C >45 Triglycerides <200

*2000 Clinical Practice Recommendations, American Diabetes Association.