Cholesterol

[ICON=cholesterol.gif]Made by your liver, cholesterol is a white waxy substance that's key to keeping every cell running smoothly.  It only becomes a problem when blood levels build up, which can be caused by too much saturated fat in the diet, physical inactivity, excessive weight, underactive thyroid gland, diabetes, or simply getting older. 

To lower your cholesterol level eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables, whole grains, oily fish, oats, beans, nuts and soya.  Avoid saturated fat and salt, lose weight and, if you can, increase your physical exercise.  There are also supplements that may help, including vitamin E and selenium.