The Good, The Bad, The Cholesterol Published Sept. 24, 2010 By Airman 1st Class Myles Stepp 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE - Okla. -- September is cholesterol awareness month. "The truth about cholesterol is that it is necessary to life. It is found in body tissues of all living beings and plays an important role in the process of maintaining health. Yet cholesterol is a leading cause of heart disease and stroke," said Gayle Kenyon, Health Educator, 97th Medical Group. Good cholesterol contains high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and is responsible for transporting bad cholesterol back to the liver to be processed into waste. Good cholesterol food examples are cranberries, strawberries, onions and foods high in niacin (vitamin B3). "High levels of HDL cholesterol can actually lower your risk for heart disease and stroke," said Kenyon. Bad cholesterol contains low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and is associated with cardiovascular disease. Foods that are high in trans and saturated fats such as pork, beef, eggs and dairy products should be eaten in moderation. "They leave behind a waxy substance called plaque that can lodge in the artery walls. Over time the plaque builds up and hinders, or even blocks, blood flow, increasing risk of heart disease and stroke," said Kenyon. For more information call the Health and Wellness Center (HAWC) at 580-481-5013.