Cholesterol has received a bad reputation for a variety of reasons including misguided publicity and consumer ignorance. While some cholesterol is, indeed, bad for your health, other types are essential for the proper functioning of your biological processes. For instance, cholesterol is a key component in the structure of cell walls. In addition, it is necessary for the manufacture of many important biological substrates.Good Vs. Bad CholesterolTo be sure, the overall level of cholesterol in your bloodstream is an important indicator of heart stress. It leads to the blockage of arteries and an increase in blood pressure. There are other considerations, however. Certain cholesterols are considered "good" while others denoted as "bad."The trouble with LDL or "bad" cholesterol is that it is insoluble in water and the liver cannot remove it from the blood. This leads to an unhealthy buildup on the artery walls. The heart compensates for this restriction by pumping more vigorously."Good" or HDL cholesterol, on the other hand, counteract the effects of LDL. It actually bonds to the LDL cholesterol and transforms it into a water soluble compound that can be processed by the liver. Subsequently, the compound is excreted from the body.Natural Cholesterol ControlThe simplest way to reduce the amount of LDL cholesterol in your system is to never introduce it in the first place. A high fiber diet, most especially oats, and fish with high omega-3 fatty acids are the fast track to heart health. These foods, along with a healthy dose of walnuts, almonds and other nuts can show significant results in a few short weeks.In short, proper cholesterol levels can be maintained with the proper diet and a certain amount of exercise. Maintenance of this healthy lifestyle should yield a happier, more productive life that is never burdened by heart attacks, strokes or other cardiovascular diseases. The diet and the exercise regimen are not difficult to implement and the results are proven and significant.