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Cholesterol

By Jennifer Moll, About.com

Updated: January 8, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Rich Fogoros, MD

Definition: Cholesterol is a fat-like substance (lipid) circulating in the blood of all humans. Most of the cholesterol in your body is made by the liver, however, some cholesterol can also be obtained through diet.

Cholesterol has many uses in the body, including giving strength to cellular membranes, insulating neurons, and helps to make steroid hormones, like estrogen and testosterone.

Also Known As: fat
Common Misspellings: colesterol
Jennifer Moll
Guide since 2004

Jennifer Moll
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