Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is present in our body, produced by the liver and found in some foods. It is essential for our body’s functioning as it helps in building cell walls, producing hormones and vitamins.

However, high levels of cholesterol in the blood can be dangerous and can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Thus, it is essential to understand the difference between good cholesterol and bad cholesterol to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is present in the blood, produced by the liver. It is also found in some foods like meat, eggs and dairy products.

The body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, but high levels of cholesterol in the blood can lead to accumulation in the arteries, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

What are lipoproteins?

Cholesterol travels through the blood attached to proteins, which are called lipoproteins. There are two types of lipoproteins:.

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often referred to as bad cholesterol as it can build up in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

High levels of LDL in the blood can cause plaque formation in the arteries, which can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

High-density lipoprotein (HDL)

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is often referred to as good cholesterol as it removes excess cholesterol from the blood, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

HDL carries cholesterol away from the arteries to the liver, where it can be broken down and eliminated.

What are the normal levels of cholesterol?

According to the American Heart Association, the following are the normal levels of cholesterol:.

Total cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL
LDL cholesterol: Less than 100 mg/dL
HDL cholesterol: 40 mg/dL or higher
Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL

What causes high cholesterol?

Several factors can contribute to high cholesterol, including:.

Diet: Eating foods that are high in saturated and trans fats can increase the level of LDL in the blood.
Weight: Being overweight or obese can increase the level of LDL in the blood.
Physical inactivity: Lack of physical activity can lead to high LDL and low HDL levels in the blood.
Age and gender: As we age, the level of LDL in the blood tends to increase, and men generally have higher levels of cholesterol than women.
Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to high cholesterol levels.
Smoking: Smoking can increase the level of LDL in the blood and reduce the level of HDL.

How to manage cholesterol levels?

To manage cholesterol levels, it is essential to adopt healthy lifestyle habits and follow the prescribed treatment plan. Some tips to manage cholesterol levels include:.

Eat a heart-healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Engage in regular physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.
Take prescribed medications regularly as directed by the healthcare provider.
Get regular check-ups and monitor cholesterol levels.

Conclusion

Cholesterol is an essential substance for our body’s functioning, but high levels of cholesterol in the blood can lead to heart disease and stroke.

Understanding the difference between good cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL) is crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Following healthy lifestyle habits and monitoring cholesterol levels regularly can help manage cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.