Polyunsaturates such as linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid cannot be produced by the body and therefore must be obtained in our diet. They are called essential fatty acids and are necessary for such functions as cell structure and hormone production. They have also been found in some processed foods and in vegetable oils which are processed into margarines or shortening through hydrogenation as well as processed foods made with these products. Cholesterol Cholesterol is important in producing hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone and bile which is a key emulsifier needed for digestion. Dietary cholesterol or the cholesterol found in foods, comes only from animal sources such as egg yolks, organ meats and full fat dairy products.
Blood cholesterol is a white, waxy substance which occurs naturally in our body.
It is manufactured by the liver and is necessary for our bodies to function properly. Problems can arise if the level of cholesterol in the blood is too high and begins building up on the artery walls. Excess levels of LDL cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease as it is this form which builds up on the artery walls. Fat intake in our diets can play an important role in controlling LDL levels. HDL cholesterol gathers up excess cholesterol in the blood and carries it back to the liver to be reprocessed or excreted.