Unpacking Body Composition Lingo
Are dietary cholesterol and blood cholesterol the same thing?
No. Dietary cholesterol is found in food. Blood cholesterol – which includes HDL ("good") and LDL ("bad") – is one of eight essential measures of heart health identified by the American Heart Association. A diet high in saturated fat can lead to high LDL cholesterol levels and further lead to plaque buildup in the walls of your arteries. This restricts blood flow and can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Your doctor can check your blood cholesterol levels with a blood test.
What causes high cholesterol?
Foods high in saturated fats increase "less helpful" LDL cholesterol, raising the risk of high cholesterol and heart disease, while genetics can also play a role. On the other hand, heart-healthy fats, high-fiber foods like olive oil, salmon, avocados, legumes, oats, nuts, and seeds can boost "good" HDL cholesterol levels. Regular exercise, limited alcohol intake, and sufficient sleep also aid in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and heart health.