Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells in the human body. You need cholesterol for your body to function properly, but your body produces all the cholesterol it needs. Consuming dietary cholesterol is unnecessary.

Cholesterol molecules are coated with a protein called a lipoprotein. Low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) are known as the “bad” cholesterol and are linked to heart disease. The LDLs carry cholesterol directly to the tissues. High-density lipoproteins (HDLs) carry excess cholesterol back to the liver, which processes and pulls out the cholesterol. HDLs are therefore considered the "good" cholesterol: The more HDL you have, the lower your risk for developing heart disease. You can only find HDLs and LDLs in your bloodstream, not in food.¹