Cholesterol is a vital lipid, contained in animal foods which can also be produced by the human body. Cholesterol is necessary for the production of hormones, of new cell tissue, of bile in the liver and of the Vitamin D precursor. It is present in the blood in small amounts as free cholesterol.
Many people have cholesterol levels which are too high, generally caused by incorrect nutrition (too much fat, meat and eggs). Consistent high cholesterol levels are associated with a high risk of arteriosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.