Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the cell membranes of all body tissues and transported through the blood plasma. In the human body there are two types of cholesterol carriers - 'bad cholesterol', low-density lipoprotein or LDL and 'good cholesterol', high-density lipoprotein or HDL. To put it simply, good cholesterol carriers help to keep the arteries healthy by clearing the cholesterol out of the system. The bad cholesterol carriers deposit cholesterol in the artery walls thus thickening them - a key cause of heart disease. The treatment of high cholesterol should be a priority!

The American Heart Association and the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) recommend aiming for an HDL count of around 60 mg/ dL. An HDL count lower than 40 mg indicates an increased risk of coronary artery disease. The LDL reading should be around 130 mg/ dL. High LDL levels can be precipitated by a diet rich in saturated and trans fats and low in beneficial fats (monounsaturates and polyunsaturates). Smoking, a high alcohol intake, other poor dietary habits and lack of exercise can all contribute and should be targeted in the treatment of high cholesterol.

Total cholesterol of less than 200 mg/dL usually means that the risk of a heart attack is relatively low. To keep it low, it is best to follow a diet with plenty of fruits and fiber, low fat proteins and whole grain cereals. Less saturated fat, more monounsaturated fats and foods rich in Omega 3 would help in raising the level of good cholesterol and lowering bad cholesterol.

A large part of the American adult population has cholesterol levels of 200 to 239 mg/dL, classified as a borderline high risk. The risks are higher if the HDL level is below 40 mg/dL. Sometimes a cholesterol level of 200 to 239 mg/dL may not indicate a borderline high risk, because of a high HDL cholesterol count and a low LDL count. If other risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes() are present then regular check ups to ensure appropriate treatment of high cholesterol are essential.

Total cholesterol level of 240 or more puts a person at high risk of heart attack and strokes. At these levels, it becomes essential to change one's diet completely and include heart friendly exercises like walking and swimming. The regime for the treatment of high cholesterol() may include cholesterol-lowering drugs.

The American Dietetic Association advises that to maintain a cholesterol-friendly diet, it is best to eat plenty of vegetables, fruits and wholegrain foods. Other dietary advice useful in the treatment of high cholesterol is to limit saturated fats by choosing lean cuts of meat, chicken without the skin and low-fat dairy products. Keep fatty fast food and processed cakes, sweets and chips to a minimum. Ensure you choose heart healthy cooking oils such as canola and olive oil. Other beneficial oils can be found in oily fish such as mackerel and salmon, nuts and avocadoes. Limit dietary cholesterol from meat, egg yolks and offal.