What is cholesterol and how does that effect the human heart?

Cholesterol: There are different types of cholesterol. Ldl cholesterol, also known as bad cholesterol, is the type that increases the risks for heart attacks and strokes. Hdl cholesterol, also known as good cholesterol, helps to remove some of the levels of bad cholesterol in the body. Triglycerides are the building blocks for many different types of cholesterol. Overall, too much cholesterol = heart disease.