Along with smoking and high blood pressure, raised blood cholesterol is one of the main risk factors for heart disease. People can reduce their blood cholesterol with a healthful diet, exercise, and medication. Show The two main types of cholesterol are high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol. Some cholesterol is needed in the body, but high levels can be dangerous. In this article, we look at HDL and LDL in detail, including what makes one good and the other bad, as well as what a person can do to keep levels in check. LDL cholesterol is often called bad cholesterol. If there is too much LDL cholesterol in the blood, it builds up in the walls of the blood vessels, causing them to narrow and stiffen. A buildup of LDL cholesterol reduces blood flow and can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. HDL or good cholesterol can move LDL cholesterol from the blood to the liver, which breaks it down for disposal as waste. HDL cholesterol is referred to as good cholesterol because it reduces the level of cholesterol in the blood. Higher HDL levels are linked to a reduced risk of heart attack and heart disease. In the United States, cholesterol is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). The guidelines for healthy cholesterol levels are as follows:
Different regions and countries may have varying guidelines, so it is wise to speak to a doctor about the most accurate and up-to-date ranges. The total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol ratio can help a person know if they are consuming enough good cholesterol and to limit sources of bad cholesterol. It can be measured by dividing the total cholesterol by the HDL level. Ideally, the ratio should be below 4. The lower this number is, the healthier a person’s cholesterol levels are. Total cholesterol does fluctuate, so more than one blood test might be required for an accurate assessment. Levels can change following a meal, so sometimes a blood test will be taken first thing in the morning before a person has breakfast. Studies suggest that the total cholesterol to HDL ratio is a better marker of the risk of heart disease than LDL cholesterol levels alone. Non-HDL cholesterol Another method of assessing cholesterol levels is calculating a non-HDL cholesterol level. This is measured by subtracting HDL cholesterol from the total cholesterol. This method is considered to be more accurate by some doctors because it includes very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) levels in the calculation. Similarly to LDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol can also build up inside the walls of blood vessels, which is undesirable. Ideally, a non-HDL cholesterol level should be less than 130 mg/dL. A higher value than that increases the risk for heart disease. Share on PinterestHigh LDL cholesterol may be caused by inactivity.Causes of high LDL cholesterol include:
The following lifestyle changes can help lower LDL cholesterol:
Some studies have shown vitamin B-3 can lower LDL cholesterol while raising HDL. It is important to talk to a doctor before taking niacin supplements. People trying to lower their LDL cholesterol should also avoid eating saturated and trans fats. Foods to avoid are:
Other diet tips to prevent LDL levels creeping up include:
A variety of things can improve HDL cholesterol levels, including:
High LDL cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease, but it can often occur without any symptoms. It is recommended that people over 40 years of age arrange a blood test to check their cholesterol levels and total cholesterol to HDL ratio. Dietary and lifestyle changes can make a big difference to HDL and LDL levels. If they do not improve with these changes, a doctor may recommend medications. What is the functional difference between LDL and HDL?HDL helps rid your body of excess cholesterol so it's less likely to end up in your arteries. LDL is called “bad cholesterol” because it takes cholesterol to your arteries, where it can collect in your artery walls. Too much cholesterol in your arteries may lead to a buildup of plaque known as atherosclerosis.
What is the difference between lipoprotein and LDL?LDL and HDL Cholesterol: "Bad" and "Good" Cholesterol. Cholesterol travels through the blood on proteins called “lipoproteins.” Two types of lipoproteins carry cholesterol throughout the body: LDL (low-density lipoprotein), sometimes called “bad” cholesterol, makes up most of your body's cholesterol.
Which is more important VLDL or LDL?LDL is considered 'bad' cholesterol because high levels can lead to the buildup of plaque in your arteries,” said Chiadika. “VLDL is considered 'bad' cholesterol as well but it mainly carries triglycerides, the most common type of fat in your body.
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