What is it and how does it affect me?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that’s found in all the cells in your body. Your body needs some cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest foods. However, if you have too much cholesterol in your blood it can combine with other substances in the blood to form plaque. Plaque sticks to the walls of your arteries, which can develop into atherosclerosis and lead to cardiovascular disease.

What is it and how does it affect me?

Often referred to as “good cholesterol” HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is a type of cholesterol that is associated with better cardiovascular health. HDL helps clear unhealthy cholesterol, like LDL, out of your body. Understanding your HDL levels can help a care provider evaluate your cardiovascular health.

What is it and how does it affect me?

Often referred to as “bad cholesterol” LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is a form of cholesterol that may increase your risk of developing atherosclerosis, the most common cause of cardiovascular disease. Understanding your LDL levels can help a care provider evaluate your cardiovascular health.