A Dallas-based company has put a new twist in the fight against cholesterol.

Since the 1960s, it has been known that cholesterol is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, often leading to heart attacks and strokes. Health care professionals and nutritionists agree that people should strive to keep their high-density lipoprotein - the "good" cholesterol - levels higher and low-density lipoprotein -the "bad" cholesterol - levels lower.

Traditionally, cholesterol has been treated by prescription medicines as well as recommended diet changes. While diet changes have been successful, the expensive doctor-prescribed medicines have been known to have side effects - some very serious - such as muscle damage.

Mosaic Nutraceuticals developed a unique way to address the cholesterol question with Lipotrene, a soft, strawberry-flavored candy chew that is convenient for anyone to take. Policosanol, the active ingredient in Lipotrene, is a natural compound derived from sugar cane and is a proven cholesterol-fighter.

"We know we have to control our cholesterol levels," said Charles Townsend, chief executive officer of Mosaic. "We also know that America likes candy. Put the two together and you have an enjoyable way to address a problem."