What is cholesterol made up of

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You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link. Total cholesterol is the total amount of cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell in your body. You will often see them called the good cholesterol and the bad cholesterol.

HDL is called the good cholesterol. You hear a lot about keeping your cholesterol low. But in the case of the HDL component of total cholesterol, the higher your level, the better. The problem is, it can be hard to keep your HDL levels high. Genetic factors can also play a role. Although statin medications can help, your diet matters. Triglyceride is the most common type of fat in your body. This is done using a blood test called a lipoprotein panel , which also measures your triglycerides.

Keeping total cholesterol levels within a healthy range is important for people of all ages, whether they have heart disease or not. Your total cholesterol level reflects your risk for heart disease.

In general, the higher the level, the higher your risk. Why does the test also measure the lipoproteins in your total cholesterol as well as your triglycerides? Get our printable guide for your next doctor's appointment to help you ask the right questions. Looking to start a diet to better manage your cholesterol? Changing lifelong eating habits can be scary at first, but our guide will make it easier. American Heart Association. What your cholesterol levels mean.

Updated April 30, Statins are a group of medicines that can do this. The two most effective types are atorvastatin and rosuvastatin. Other medicines that lower cholesterol levels are ezetimibe and PCSK9 inhibitors. Triglycerides are another class of fat found in the bloodstream. The bulk of your body's fat tissue is in the form of triglycerides.

The link between triglycerides and heart disease is being studied. High triglyceride levels may be caused by health conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, kidney disease, or liver disease.

Dietary causes of high triglyceride levels may include drinking a lot of alcohol, and eating foods containing cholesterol, saturated fat, and trans fat. Facts about cholesterol Cholesterol is a fat-like, waxy substance that helps your body make cell membranes, many hormones, and vitamin D.