Cholesterol is a vital substance in the body that is produced by the liver and also found in some foods. It is essential for the proper functioning of cells, hormones, and nerves.

However, high levels of cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease, which is a leading cause of death globally.

The Difference Between “Good” and “Bad” Cholesterol

There are two types of cholesterol: high-density lipoprotein (HDL), also known as “good” cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as “bad” cholesterol.

HDL carries cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it can be broken down and eliminated from the body. This is why HDL is often referred to as “good” cholesterol.

On the other hand, LDL can build up in the walls of arteries, forming plaque that can narrow arteries and lead to atherosclerosis, a condition that significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

This is why LDL is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol.

Why “Good” Cholesterol May Not Be a Reliable Indicator of Heart Disease Risk

Previous studies have shown that higher levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of heart disease. This led to the idea that increasing HDL levels could be a way to lower the risk of heart disease. However, recent research has challenged this idea.

A study published in The Lancet in 2016 found that a genetic variant that increases HDL levels did not lower the risk of heart disease.

The study, which analyzed data from over 300,000 individuals, concluded that “genetically increased HDL-cholesterol was not associated with a reduced risk of myocardial infarction, nor did it provide any protection against the adverse effects of genetically increased LDL-cholesterol.”.

Another study published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 2014 found that a drug that raised HDL levels did not reduce the risk of heart disease.

The study, which involved over 12,000 individuals, concluded that “the addition of [the drug] to statin therapy in patients with established vascular disease did not result in a lower rate of recurrent cardiovascular events than statin therapy alone.”.

These studies suggest that “good” cholesterol may not be a reliable indicator of heart disease risk.

While higher levels of HDL may be associated with a lower risk of heart disease, simply raising HDL levels may not necessarily lower the risk.

Other Factors That Affect Heart Disease Risk

While cholesterol levels are an important factor in determining heart disease risk, they are not the only one. There are several other factors that can contribute to the development of heart disease, including:.

High blood pressure
Diabetes
Smoking
Obesity
Lack of physical activity

Additionally, a person’s genetics can also play a role in their risk of heart disease.

The Importance of a Comprehensive Approach to Heart Disease Prevention

Given the complex nature of heart disease risk, it is important to take a comprehensive approach to prevention. This includes:.

Maintaining a healthy diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
Exercising regularly
Not smoking or using tobacco products
Maintaining a healthy weight
Managing high blood pressure, diabetes, and other chronic conditions

Working with a healthcare provider to develop an individualized plan for heart disease prevention is also important.

The Bottom Line

While higher levels of “good” cholesterol may be associated with a lower risk of heart disease, simply raising HDL levels may not necessarily lower the risk.

A comprehensive approach to heart disease prevention that addresses other risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, is important for reducing the risk of heart disease.