What are LDL and HDL?
- LDL cholesterol stands for low-density lipoprotein. LDL is called the "bad" cholesterol because elevated levels can lead to coronary artery heart disease. LDL's are the primary carriers of cholesterol, and it brings cholesterol to the cells throughout your body and can cause cholesterol to build-up within your arteries. This build-up can eventually lead to arterial blockage and increased risk for heart disease and stroke. LDL is made of lipids and proteins. Your family history and age are factors that control LDL and HDL levels partially.
- HDL cholesterol stands for high-density lipoprotein. HDL is considered the "good" cholesterol because it removes cholesterol from where it is not needed. HDL consists of 20% of cholesterol by weight and 50% of protein. HDL's also carries cholesterol, but it carries back to the liver. Having high levels of HDL can help decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease.
- In reality, though, neither HDL or LDL are good or bad cholesterol. They both have good aspects and bad aspects.