The body requires cholesterol, which is a fatty compound, to help make your hormones and cell membranes.  We get cholesterol from unsaturated and saturated fatty acids from foods we eat.  These convert into either beneficial high-density lipoproteins (HDL), which subsequently convert into anti-inflammatory chemicals in the body, or harmful low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in the body, which subsequently form inflammatory cytokines, and exacerbate any inflammatory condition.  LDL have the potential to stick together and form plaques in the arteries, causing blockages and high blood pressure, which could lead to life threatening heart disease and strokes.

It is important to consume foods that are high in unsaturated fatty acids, such as oily fish, nuts, olive oil, seeds & avocados, which will increase you ratio of HDL to LDL.  Saturated fats from processed and convenience foods will raise levels of LDL and should be avoided.  If you need to address your cholesterol levels and improve the ratio between HDL:LDL, a meal and exercise plan could help to prevent further chronic conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and thrombosis.