Finding out about cholesterol can be a confusing business. What is it? Can it ever be good for you? Which foods are high in cholesterol? How high or low should your cholesterol be? And is there anything you can do about it? We’ve put together a straightforward guide to cholesterol, both good and bad – yes, it’s true some cholesterol can be good for you! - and how you can ensure you keep yours at a healthy level.

Cholesterol is a white waxy substance that’s found naturally in the body and it’s key to keeping every cell running smoothly. Cholesterol also produces vital chemicals such as vitamin D and some hormones.

Most cholesterol is made in the liver and a small amount comes from your diet. Too much saturated fat (bad fat) can increase blood cholesterol,

Cholesterol only becomes a problem when the level in your blood is too much - if you have more cholesterol than your body needs it can cause the build up of fatty deposits in your arteries and lead to heart problems.