What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your bloodstream. This insoluble matter is produced primarily by the liver, but it is also produced by other cells in the body. Despite its bad reputation, cholesterol is actually vital for many of the metabolic processes that take place in your body.

Your body needs cholesterol for a variety of reasons including:

Making New Cells.
Cholesterol is needed to build the structure of cell membranes. This includes the coating for neurons, which are the cells in your nervous system.

Aiding in the production of bile.
Bile is important because it assists your body with digestion by helping you digest fat and absorb important nutrients. Complaints among older adults frequently pertain to digestive health. Cholesterol indirectly helps aid in digestion so that it's easier for your body to break down and move food through your system.

Producing important hormones.
A few of the essential hormones cholesterol helps you create include estrogen, testosterone, and several stress hormones. These hormones are as important to seniors as they are to every other age group.

Producing vitamin D.
Vitamin D is critical for senior health because it helps prevent osteoporosis (another common condition associated with age).

Although cholesterol provides many benefits, it's very important to know that not all cholesterol is created equal so don't go binge on eggs before you finish this article!

With that being said, the rules regarding cholesterol are similar to those that pertain to most things in life. You have likely heard phrases' like too much of anything is never a good thing and quality over quantity. Both these cliches embody the view you should take when conceptualizing your cholesterol health.