Most people associate the word, "cholesterol", with something bad. It's one of those things that gets a lot of negative press. However, what many people are not aware of is that cholesterol isn't all bad. It's actually something that the human body needs. The body produces cholesterol, which it then uses in order to carry out the various bodily functions.

With the aid of lipoproteins, the liver produces cholesterol -- both HDL (high density lipoproteins or the good cholesterol) and LDL (low density lipoproteins or the bad cholesterol). The human body needs cholesterol in order to build cell membranes, as well as naturally produce vitamin D and hormones. Cholesterol is also needed to produce bile, which is the stomach acid that is used during digestion, and what ultimately keeps the excess LDL cholesterol from accumulating in the blood.

The cell membranes need cholesterol in order for them to be permeable and fluid. Aside from being used by the body for building cell membranes, cholesterol is also used to provide insulation to nerve fibers and to produce hormones including sex hormones, steroid hormones and adrenal corticosteroids. Cholesterol is also vital in the natural production of vitamin D, which is a necessary vitamin for maintaining bone and immune system health.

The liver is where cholesterol is produced. On average, the liver produces approximately 1,000mg of cholesterol daily. About 800mg of that is used by the body to produce bile salts. The liver also is responsible for removing cholesterol from the blood. Cholesterol can also be derived from foods including dairy products, fish, poultry and meat.

The normal cholesterol level is approximately 200mg/dL. Hypercholesterolemia is where the cholesterol level is above 240mg/dL. Normal HDL cholesterol level is between 40mg/dL and 50mg/dL, while normal LDL cholesterol level is 100mg/dL. Excess cholesterol is deposited to the arteries, which can lead to a condition called arteriosclerosis. Cholesterol deposits in the arteries can block the flow of blood to and from the arteries, which can lead to a stroke or heart disease. To maintain good heart health, sticking to a diet of low cholesterol foods is recommended.

• Cut back on your consumption of alcohol. Limit it to up to 2 drinks a day. Do not go on a drinking binge.

• Avoid smoking as doing so only helps LDL cholesterol to get into the cells causing damage.

• Exercise on a regular basis. Exercise at least 3 times a week. You can also brisk walk for 30 minutes every day. Exercise promotes good HDL levels and lowers LDL levels.

• Work on losing excess body fat. Obesity or being overweight can cause LDL levels to increase.

• If you are diabetic, watch your blood glucose levels. High blood glucose levels have been found to increase the risk of atherosclerosis.