Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all the cells of the body. It is essential for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest foods. While the body needs some cholesterol to function properly, too much cholesterol can lead to health problems, particularly heart disease. Cholesterol travels through the bloodstream in small packages called lipoproteins, which are made of fat (lipid) on the inside and proteins on the outside.
