cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that's found in your blood and every cell of your

body. You need some cholesterol to keep your cells and organs healthy. Your liver makes all

the cholesterol your body needs. But you can also get cholesterol from the foods you eat,

especially meat, eggs, poultry, and dairy products. Foods that are high in dietary fat can also

make your liver produce more cholesterol.

Too much LDL cholesterol in your blood may put you at risk for heart disease and other

serious conditions. High LDL levels can cause the build-up of plaque, a fatty substance that

narrows the arteries and blocks blood from flowing normally. When blood flow to the heart

is blocked, it can cause a heart attack. When blood flow to the brain is blocked, it can lead to

stroke and peripheral artery disease.