Where is Cholesterol Produced in the Body

Cholesterol is an important component of the cell membrane. It is required for proper membrane permeability and fluidity. Cholesterol plays an important role in a number of body functions. The body uses cholesterol to build cell membranes and insulate nerve fibers. It is used by the body for the production of certain hormones such as steroid hormones, sex hormones and adrenal corticosteroid hormones. Cholesterol is also used to manufacture vitamin D and bile that helps in the digestion process. Cholesterol is transported by proteins through the bloodstream. There are different types of cholesterol such as LDL (low density lipoproteins) cholesterol, which is also referred to as bad cholesterol, and HDL (high density lipoproteins) cholesterol, also known as good cholesterol and total cholesterol.

There are two major sources of cholesterol such as dietary intake and liver production. Dietary cholesterol includes dairy products, fish, meat and poultry. Talking about production of cholesterol in the body, it is synthesized in the liver. The liver produces about 1,000 mg of cholesterol everyday. From that, approximately 800 mg cholesterol is used for the production of bile salts and rest is used for other functions. The liver is capable of manufacturing cholesterol as well as removing it from the blood circulation.

Note that, less than 200 mg/dL is the desirable level of total blood cholesterol. If the cholesterol level is more than 240 mg/dL, then the condition is known as hypercholesterolemia. Desirable level of HDL cholesterol is 40-50 mg/dL and less than 100 mg/dL for LDL cholesterol. Excess amounts of cholesterol get deposited inside the arteries and it can give rise to a condition, arteriosclerosis. A restricted blood flow can lead to blockage of artery. It may result in a stroke or heart disease. Hence, low cholesterol foods are recommended to maintain good heart health.