Colesterol
In short
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all animal cells and is essential for building cell membranes and making certain hormones.
In plain words
It is a type of fat that your body needs to work properly. While your liver makes enough on its own, you also get it from foods like meat and eggs. Too much of the wrong kind can clog your arteries.
A simple example
If you eat many processed meats and fried foods, your body may accumulate high levels of LDL cholesterol. This can lead to a buildup of fatty deposits in your blood vessels.
Why it matters
Keeping cholesterol levels balanced is vital for heart health. High levels of bad cholesterol increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse cholesterol with triglycerides, which are a different type of fat used for energy.