What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a type of fat essential for our bodies. We need cholesterol to manufacture certain hormones, build and repair cell membranes, and for metabolic processes including production of vitamin D and bile acids. However, too much cholesterol is harmful and can increase your risk of heart disease.

We often worry about the physical factors that affect our health, but sometimes forget about the role of emotional or psychological factors. Social connections, friendships and our relationships with other people help shape who we are and how we behave, but they also impact on our health.

Research shows that loneliness and social isolation are associated with a worse prognosis in patients with heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, liver disease, breast cancer and stroke. Also, people who are divorced, widowed or single are often found to be more depressed than those who are in supportive relationships.

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