Far too often, people rant about the “evil cholesterol.” But do you actually know what cholesterol is used for in the body?
Cholesterol as a basis – The daily bite of knowledge
Written by
Marina Lommel
2 minutes reading time
17. July 2023
zuletzt aktualisiert am 6. October 2025 von Kimberly Werner
Cholesterol does not float around uselessly in our bodies, but has crucial functions there:
- Cholesterol is part of cell membranes and contributes to their stability.
- Cholesterol is the starting material for the formation of bile acids. They are important for a functioning fat digestion.
- Cholesterol is the starting material for the formation of vitamin D in the skin.
In addition, cholesterol is a precursor of steroid hormones. These include:
- Cortisol from the adrenal cortex. A hormone that influences carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism, among other things.
- Testosterone, which performs important functions in both women and men. Among other things, it affects growth, sperm formation and has an influence on the psyche in both sexes – for example, on self-confidence and the “love of life”.
- Estrogens and progestins that regulate the female cycle and pregnancy.
Always stay up to date with our Newsletter.
The daily bite of knowledge
This new section is intended to provide a brief look at topics in nutrition science. Today’s bite is meant to show that cholesterol is much more than something that just “is in the food” or “somehow does harm.” We’ll have to talk about the impact of dietary cholesterol on cholesterol levels and all the lipoproteins – HDL, VLDL, IDL, LDL – another time.
Similar posts by Foodpunk
All about intermittent fasting
For whom is it suitable? For whom not? What is there to consider? In this article we clarify!
Your skin eats with you! – The daily bite of knowledge
Have you ever thought about the substances you put on your skin every day? They should not be underestimated, because the skin eats with you.
Birch sugar (xylitol), erythritol and co – This is what I think of them
Here is a brief overview on the subject of xylitol, erythritol and other sweeteners.
Lauric acid – healthy fatty acid from the coconut
What actually is lauric acid. Is the hype around them justified? Everything about the occurrence and effect of the fatty acid can be found in this overview article.
What actually is erythritol? – The daily bite of knowledge
We have summarized all the pros and cons in this small article.
Why do we need cholesterol? Is there good and bad cholesterol? How can I influence my cholesterol level?
Do you know why sleep is also important for losing weight and too little sleep is bad for you? Here we explain it to you!
I'm sure you've heard about the importance of omega-3 fatty acids, perhaps pay attention to eating fatty sea fish or even take fish oil capsules. But why exactly are omega-3 fatty acids relevant for the body?
Eating out – Paleo Restaurants, Low Carb Cafés and much more – in Germany, Austria and Switzerland
Together with our community, we want to create the ultimate list of foodpunk-worthy restaurants in Germany, Austria and Switzerland for you.