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Cholesterol
A waxy blood lipid; the LDL/HDL balance matters more than the total.
Concepts
Definition
Cholesterol is a waxy fat the body makes and also gets from food; it is needed to build cells and hormones. It travels in the blood on carriers: LDL, often called "bad", can build up in artery walls, while HDL, "good", helps clear it. For most people the amount of cholesterol eaten matters less than saturated-fat intake, weight, activity and genetics. A blood test reports total, LDL, HDL and triglycerides.
Related terms
Saturated fat
A fat type, solid at room temperature, best kept to a modest share of energy.
Unsaturated fat
Fats, usually liquid at room temperature, linked to better heart health.
Resting heart rate
Beats per minute at rest; a lower rate often signals better fitness.
Source: Standard cardiovascular-health references on blood lipids. · checked 2026-09-04
Frequently asked questions
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy fat the body makes and also gets from food; it is needed to build cells and hormones. It travels in the blood on carriers: LDL, often called "bad", can build up in artery walls, while HDL, "good", helps clear it. For most people the amount of cholesterol eaten matters less than saturated-fat intake, weight, activity and genetics. A blood test reports total, LDL, HDL and triglycerides.
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