One of the waxy steroids found in cell membranes, the Cholesterol is actually a lipid and an essential component of mammalian cell membranes. The Cholesterol is also found in blood plasma of all mammals. The Cholesterol is required to establish proper membrane functions such as permeability and fluidity.
Cholesterol is synthesized within the body itself. The liver is responsible for recycling the Cholesterol intake through food. The blood absorbs the Cholesterol content after processing. The blood cholesterol level is important in detecting diabetes, where more than 240 mg/dL level can cause high risk of diabetes.
Cholesterol is known as building blocks of human body. The chemical is essential in building and maintenance of cell membranes. The membrane fluidity is also regulated by Cholesterol. Once a call membrane is built, the Cholesterol controls the intercellular transport with call signalling and nerve conduction. In liver, the Cholesterol is converted into bile, which is stored in the gallbladder. The bile is responsible for intestinal absorption of vitamins.
In human diet, Cholesterol is found in egg yolks, cheese, beef, poultry, etc. Also human breast milk is one of the richest natural resources of Cholesterol. Plant products like peanuts and flax seeds are rich in Cholesterol-like components which have lower serum Cholesterol levels. Total intake of saturated fats is more essential that the Cholesterol itself, as it plays a larger role in blood cholesterol intake. Saturated fat is found in full-fat dairy products, animal fats, oils and chocolates.
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