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
Gelatin vs. collagen – what is the difference?
Gelatin and collagen, both have something to do with connective tissue, but what again exactly? Kick yourself into our article and learn more.
In the low carb diet, you eat no more than about 100g of carbohydrates a day. Find out which foods should and shouldn't be included here!
Cheat Day vs. Refeed – The Daily Bite of Knowledge
In a so-called refeed, you specifically eat a higher amount of carbohydrates than usual at a meal. A healthy refeed should not be confused with a cheat day.
Reader Question of the Month – Can children also eat xylitol?
Are children also allowed to eat xylitol? In this post you will learn the answer!
What is cortisol? – The daily bite of knowledge
Cortisol is a hormone produced in the adrenal cortex. Because of its effect on the body, it is often referred to as "the stress hormone."
No menstruation? This may be the cause
The absence of your menstruation can have many reasons. In this article we explain the most common causes of amenorrhea.
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.
In 10 steps to becoming a food punk
More zest for life, vitality and health! Lose weight and feast at the same time! Supply the brain with energy! All this can be achieved with the right dietary changes.
How are carbohydrates structured?
Sure! Carbohydrates are pasta, rice, potatoes. Everybody knows it! But do you really know what a carbohydrate molecule looks like?