What percentage of cholesterol in the body is accounted for by dietary cholesterol?

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Study for the University of Central Florida Human Nutrition Exam 2. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Dietary cholesterol contributes approximately 25% of the cholesterol in the body. The majority of cholesterol present in the body, about 75%, is synthesized by the liver and other cells, which produces cholesterol regardless of dietary intake. This endogenous production plays a significant role in maintaining the cholesterol balance in the body. Given that our body can regulate its own cholesterol levels, it's important to note that while dietary cholesterol can influence blood cholesterol levels, it does not account for the bulk of cholesterol found in the body. Thus, recognizing that dietary sources primarily contribute to a quarter of the body's total cholesterol helps to understand the regulatory processes the body employs concerning cholesterol homeostasis.