Cholesterol is transported by two main types of proteins in the blood:

(HDL) high-density lipoproteins: clears cholesterol out of the circulatory system. A high level of HDL is desired because it usually indicates a reduced health risk. HDL reduces serum cholesterol by carrying it to the liver, where it is broken down and flushed out of the body or reassembled into other compounds.

(LDL) low-density lipoproteins: takes cholesterol into the circulatory system. High levels are considered dangerous because most of the cholesterol in the blood is carried by this protein. It is a sticky substance that deposits cholesterol in areas of high blood flow such as Arterial Walls. These deposits build up and eventually block the flow of blood. When this happens the individual now has atherosclerosis. This condition can lead to coronary and cerebral thrombosis, embolism, heart attack and stroke. The consumption of saturated fats raises the LDL levels in the blood more than the consumption of dietary cholesterol. It is important to limit your intake of saturated fats to less than 10% of daily caloric intake.

Two Types of Cholesterol:

Dietary: Does not exist in plant foods. Found only in animals. The daily dietary cholesterol intake should not exceed 300 milligrams a day, regardless of how many calories are consumed.

It is not necessary to consume animal products for cholesterol because our bodies are capable of producing it from other dietary sources. Animals sources are high in cholesterol. Food sources high in cholesterol have high amounts of fat.

Serum: Also called blood, is found in the bloodstream and is essential to life.