Cholesterol is vital for health, aiding in hormone and vitamin D production, but excess can lead to high blood cholesterol, posing risks.
Cholesterol comes from liver and diet, notably animal products high in saturated fats. Overconsumption can elevate harmful cholesterol levels.
Excess LDL cholesterol raises heart disease risks by forming artery plaque. Blockages can trigger heart attacks, strokes, or peripheral artery disease.
HDL cholesterol, known as "good" cholesterol, removes excess cholesterol from blood, reducing heart disease and stroke risk.
Statin drugs, top choice for high cholesterol, lower LDL levels effectively, reducing heart attack, stroke, and coronary heart disease risks.
DASH diet lowers blood pressure, Ornish diet cuts LDL with strict vegetarian regimen, Portfolio diet adds cholesterol-lowering foods.