Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance made in the liver and found in certain foods, such as food from animals, like dairy products, eggs, and meat.

The body needs some cholesterol in order to function properly.  The cell walls, or membranes, need cholesterol in order to produce hormones, vitamin D, and the bile acids that help to digest fat.  However, the body needs only a small amount of cholesterol to meet its needs.  When too much is present health problems such as heart disease may develop.

WebMD. (2009, September 26). Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/guide/cholesterol-basics