Cholesterol and Diabetes

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Cholesterol and Diabetes
From Kelly Close, writer for LifeWire, for About.com
Created: November 14, 2007

What Is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a type of lipid (or fat) that, among other important functions, builds cell membranes in the body. While some cholesterol is obtained through diet, the body synthesizes most of it.

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad cholesterol,” can increase the risk of heart attacks, diabetes and other health problems. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is often called “good cholesterol” because it helps move cholesterol out of the bloodstream. Triglycerides are a type of fat that can signal risks of a heart attack or a stroke. Too much “bad cholesterol” in the bloodstream increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. People with diabetes often have high levels of “bad cholesterol” and low levels of “good cholesterol.”

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