Linseeds and linseed oil are particularly rich sources of a-linolenic acid. Cholesterol Cholesterol belongs to the sterol group of fats. It is present in all animal tissues but is absent from plants. Cholesterol is essential as a component of cell membranes and a precursor of bile acids and certain hormones. The body can make its own cholesterol and so a dietary source is not required.
Cholesterol is transported in to various proteins.
These complex molecules are called lipoproteins. There are four main types of lipoprotein involved in cholesterol transport. Cholesterol may form plaques on artery walls if levels in the blood are too high. This can lead to atherosclerosis. Because of this high blood cholesterol is linked with heart disease.