Simone Lawson
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is carried by two types of lipoproteins: high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). While HDL is often referred to as good cholesterol because it helps remove cholesterol from arteries, LDL is known as bad cholesterol. This is because high levels of LDL can lead to the build-up of plaque in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease, heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
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What You'll Learn
Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are bad cholesterol
Low-density lipoproteins, or LDL, are referred to as "bad cholesterol". This is because high levels of LDL can lead to a build-up of plaque in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This build-up of fatty deposits narrows the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
LDL is one of two types of lipoproteins that carry cholesterol to and from cells. The other is high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, which is often referred to as "good cholesterol". This is because HDL helps to remove cholesterol from the arteries, reducing the risk of heart disease.
While triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood, they are not classified as "bad cholesterol". However, high levels of triglycerides combined with high LDL cholesterol or low HDL cholesterol can be detrimental to health. This is because they are linked to fatty buildups within the artery walls, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance. It is essential for the body to function properly, but too much cholesterol can lead to health problems. This is why it is important to maintain healthy levels of both LDL and HDL cholesterol.
A simple test can measure the amount of LDL and HDL cholesterol in your blood. These tests are important because high levels of LDL cholesterol often exhibit no symptoms. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals take proactive steps to monitor their cholesterol levels and make any necessary lifestyle changes to maintain healthy LDL and HDL levels.
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High levels of LDL lead to plaque build-up in arteries
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is referred to as "bad cholesterol" because high levels of LDL can lead to the build-up of plaque in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. This process is known as atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of heart attack and stroke.
LDL deposits cholesterol into plaques of atherosclerosis, which gradually enlarge over time and are often covered by thick, fibrous caps that can resist breaking apart. However, they can still block blood flow, causing angina (chest pain brought on by exertion or emotional stress). These blockages can also lead to different types of heart attacks.
The development of atherosclerosis is initiated when LDL is retained in the artery wall, leading to its oxidative modification. This allows the oxidized form of LDL (oxLDL) to be recognised by scavenger receptors on macrophages and other cells, which then take up the oxLDL, leading to marked cholesterol accumulation and the formation of foam cells, which are the hallmark of the fatty streak phase of atherosclerosis.
In addition to promoting atherosclerosis, oxLDL also induces apoptosis of macrophages and the development of unstable plaques prone to rupture. Thrombotic arterial occlusion following plaque rupture is a critical cause of mortality, and oxLDL further increases the risk of mortality during acute coronary events by increasing platelet aggregation.
It is important to maintain healthy levels of LDL cholesterol to prevent plaque build-up in arteries and the associated complications. Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, can help lower LDL levels. Additionally, certain medications, such as statins, can be used to reduce LDL cholesterol levels when necessary.
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LDL increases the risk of heart disease and stroke
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often referred to as "bad cholesterol". This is because excess LDL cholesterol contributes to the build-up of plaque in your arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This, in turn, increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes.
LDL is a type of lipoprotein in your blood. Lipoproteins are particles made of lipids (fats) and proteins that carry fats through your bloodstream. While cholesterol is essential for your body to function properly, too much LDL cholesterol can be harmful. It can lead to a build-up of cholesterol in your arteries, causing them to become narrowed and hardened. This process is known as atherosclerosis and can restrict blood flow to your heart and brain, increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
The risk factors for high LDL cholesterol include age, sex, genetics, and certain medical conditions. As you get older, your cholesterol levels naturally tend to increase. Females typically experience higher LDL levels after menopause. If you have a family history of high cholesterol, you may also be at a higher risk. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or HIV, can contribute to elevated LDL levels.
Maintaining healthy LDL cholesterol levels is important for lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke. Most adults should aim to keep their LDL cholesterol below 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). For individuals with a history of atherosclerosis, it is recommended to maintain levels below 70 mg/dL. Lifestyle changes can significantly impact LDL levels. This includes adopting a heart-healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, which limits saturated and trans fats. Other recommendations are to avoid tobacco use, increase physical activity, maintain a healthy weight, and find ways to manage stress effectively.
In summary, LDL cholesterol is commonly known as "bad cholesterol" due to its association with increased risk of heart disease and stroke. However, it is important to recognise that cholesterol serves important functions in the body, and the focus should be on maintaining healthy LDL levels rather than eliminating it entirely.
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HDL (high-density lipoproteins) are good cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance. There are two types of lipoproteins that carry cholesterol to and from cells in the blood: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
HDL is known as "good cholesterol" because it helps remove cholesterol from the arteries. It does so by absorbing cholesterol in the blood and carrying it back to the liver, which then flushes it from the body. High levels of HDL cholesterol can lower your risk for heart disease and stroke.
On the other hand, LDL is referred to as "bad cholesterol". This is because high levels of LDL can lead to a build-up of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. This build-up, called plaque, causes the inside of the arteries to narrow over time.
If you already have low HDL cholesterol levels, it is recommended that you talk with your doctor about lifestyle changes that may help raise your levels. Such changes include choosing healthier foods with less saturated fat and quitting smoking.
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Triglycerides are a common type of body fat
Triglycerides are formed when extra calories, alcohol, and sugar in the body are converted into triglycerides. They are then stored in fat cells throughout the body. High triglyceride levels can increase the risk of health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, and heart disease. This condition, known as hypertriglyceridemia, is associated with metabolic syndrome, which includes risk factors such as central obesity, high blood pressure, and insulin resistance.
Factors that can contribute to high triglyceride levels include excessive alcohol consumption, unmanaged diabetes, a diet high in sugar and saturated fat, liver disease, kidney disease, certain medications, a high body mass index (BMI), and lack of physical activity. Family history and genetics also play a role, as those with a family history of high cholesterol or triglycerides, as well as individuals of South Asian ancestry, are at an increased risk.
To manage high triglyceride levels, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, reduce alcohol intake, and incorporate regular exercise. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna, can help lower triglyceride levels. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help regulate triglyceride levels, especially if healthy lifestyle changes are insufficient or if there are underlying health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.
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Frequently asked questions
Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are referred to as "bad cholesterol". High levels of LDL can lead to the build-up of plaque in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease, heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are known as "good cholesterol" because they help remove cholesterol from the arteries.
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood and are the most common type of fat in the body. They store excess energy from your diet. Triglycerides are not classified as "bad cholesterol".
