Cholesterol is the main component of the fatty patches or plaques that develop inside arteries called atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis of the heart and brain is the main cause of heart attacks and strokes. Blood cholesterol levels are raised by two components contained in food, saturated fat and dietary cholesterol. All sources of dietary cholesterol come from animal products like meat, whole milk, butter, cream and eggs. Saturated fats also come from animal products.
Some plant oils like palm, palm kernel, and coconut oil are also high in saturated fat.
A total blood cholesterol level below two hundred milligrams is desirable, and in the absence of other heart disease risk factors, means the risk of heart attack is relatively low. However, a total blood cholesterol between two hundred and two hundred thirty- nine doubles the risk of heart attack. It is important to know that the blood cholesterol levels and the amount of cholesterol you eat each day are different. However, this general rule may be affected by genetic or disease factors, and therefore in some individuals, the daily cholesterol intake may need adjustment. The important goal to keep in mind is keeping the blood cholesterol level below 200 milligrams.