Control Your Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a type of blood fat which is made in the liver. It’s found in some of the foods we eat too. We all need some cholesterol in our bodies, but having too much can clog up your arteries and lead to health problems in the future. Nearly half of UK adults have elevated cholesterol levels, a key risk factor for heart disease which is the leading cause of death worldwide.

Cholesterol plays a vital role in how the body works, and is especially important in your brain, nerves and skin. It has three main jobs within the body

1. It’s part of the outer layer, or membrane, of all your cells.

2. It’s used to make vitamin D and steroid hormones which keep your bones, teeth and muscles healthy.

3. It’s used to make bile, which helps to digest the fats you eat.

National Cholesterol Month raises awareness about cholesterol, how it can affect your health and why it is important to keep cholesterol levels healthy. High cholesterol is very common, but most people don't know they have it because it doesn't usually have any symptoms.

Your cholesterol can become raised for a number of reasons:

• A diet high in saturated fats

• Low activity

• Smoking

• Genetic conditions

• Medical conditions

There are treatments available for high cholesterol, but it's usually possible to lower cholesterol naturally with healthy lifestyle changes. If you are concerned about your cholesterol health, contact your GP who can arrange for you to have cholesterol check which involves a simple blood test, along with a blood pressure check, BMI and waist measurements.