This substance is produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. When our bodies produce cholesterol, this is known as endogenous cholesterol. But when we get cholesterol from our diet, i.e. in what we eat this is called exogenous cholesterol. We only need a small amount of cholesterol for the body to function, so that any excess produced is what will cause cholesterol level problems. And it is the main reason why anyone who has high cholesterol levels should become aware of what these numbers mean, and what can be done to reduce these levels.
Triglycerides are another type of lipid found in the blood.
Basically, from this substance the body gets its energy. A high carbohydrate diet, which is eventually broken down into sugars and starches, produces these triglycerides. The liver converts the sugars into triglycerides. High levels are usually found in those persons suffering diabetes, obesity, and why it is always a good idea to keep a watch on these levels also. There are three basic categories of dietary fats that will also affect healthy or non-healthy cholesterol levels in the body.