Total cholesterol is a measure of the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood. It includes low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is essential for the formation of cell membranes, vitamin D, and certain hormones. However, high levels of total cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
