Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the liver and also supplied in the diet through animal products such as meats, poultry, fish and dairy products. Food from plants such as fruits, vegetables and cereals do not have cholesterol.
Cholesterol is needed (in the body) to insulate nerves, make cell membranes and produce certain hormones. However, the body makes enough cholesterol, and any dietary cholesterol may be considered to be excess.

Diagnosing High Cholesterol
Since high blood cholesterol signals a higher risk of heart attack, it's important to have your cholesterol levels checked regularly and discuss them with your doctor. Taking a small blood sample from a finger is one common way that cholesterol levels can be measured.Your doctor will test your total cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol and will tell you about these readings. LDL and triglyceride readings may also be available.

The American Heart Association provides these guidelines for understanding your total blood cholesterol test results.
Desirable ‹ Less than 200 mg/dL
Borderline high risk ‹ 200-239 mg/dL
High risk ‹ 240 mg/dL and over

Treatment
If your cholesterol levels indicate a high risk of heart attack, your healthcare professional can recommend nutrition, exercise, or medication that will help you live a healthier lifestyle.

For more information:

Women's Heart Center

American Heart Association