print page     font size   

A-G H-M N-S T-Z

Body Mass Index (BMI)

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measurement of your body fat. It is based on your height and weight. The BMI can indicate if you are overweight or obese.

Back to the top

Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a soft, waxy fat that is produced by your liver and also comes from food. Different types of cholesterol perform necessary cell functions in your body.

Back to the top

DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)

DHA, like EPA, is an active, natural component in the omega-3 fatty acid found in fish and shellfish.

Back to the top

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)

EPA, like DHA, is an active, natural component in the omega-3 fatty acid found in fish and shellfish.

Back to the top

Essential Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids are nutrients important to good health. Since your body cannot make them naturally, you must get them from foods you eat instead. The two families of essential fatty acids are omega-3 and omega-6.

Back to the top

HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)

HDL is often referred to as "good" cholesterol because it helps transport "bad" cholesterol to your liver, where it is eliminated from your body. The higher your HDL level, the better.

Back to the top

Hydrogenated Fats

Hydrogenated fats are fats that have undergone a chemical process. They can be found in products like margarine and shortening.

Back to the top

LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)

LDL is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because excessive amounts in the body can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor may take steps to lower your LDL level if it's too high.

Back to the top

Lipid

Lipid is a general term for the types of fat that travel through your bloodstream. The most common lipids in your body are cholesterol and triglycerides. See also Lipoprotein.

Back to the top

Lipoprotein

Lipoproteins are particles that carry cholesterol through the blood. The cholesterol is then used as energy. There are three types of lipoproteins your doctor may talk to you about: high-density lipoproteins (HDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL), and very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL).

Back to the top

Omega-3

Omega-3s, like omega-6s, are essential fatty acids that are important to your good health. Your body does not produce enough omega-3s, so it's important to try and get them through diet; omega-3s can be found in fish like salmon, herring, and mackerel. However, if diet is not enough to maintain a healthy triglyceride level, you may want to discuss treatment options for lowering very high triglycerides with your doctor.

Back to the top

Omega-6

Omega-6s, like omega-3s, are essential fatty acids that are important to your good health. Your body does not produce enough omega-6s, so it's important to try and get them through diet; omega-6s can be found in seeds, nuts, and oils. Be careful to get the right balance of omega-6s. Too many omega-6s might cause health problems.

Back to the top

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood. When you eat, some of the calories you consume are used for energy, and others are converted to triglycerides and stored.

Back to the top