The liver is the primary organ responsible for cholesterol production.
Your liver produces almost all the cholesterol your body needs for essential functions like building cell membranes, hormones, and vitamin D. While dietary cholesterol contributes, the liver's production is the major source. This is supported by numerous reputable sources including Johns Hopkins Medicine (https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/high-cholesterol/cholesterol-in-the-blood), the American Heart Association (https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/about-cholesterol), and Harvard Health (https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/how-its-made-cholesterol-production-in-your-body). These sources consistently state that the liver synthesizes the majority—approximately 80%—of the cholesterol your body requires. The remaining 20% comes from dietary sources.
Key Points:
- Liver's Role: The liver is the main cholesterol manufacturer in the body.
- Dietary Contribution: While diet contributes to cholesterol levels, the liver's production is significantly more impactful.
- Essential Function: Cholesterol is vital for various bodily processes, including hormone production and cell membrane formation.
