Low-density lipoprotein is commonly called LDL. Lipoproteins are the protein packages responsible for transporting cholesterol in the blood. Some cholesterol comes from the diet while the rest is synthesized in the liver. LDL is the lipoprotein that carries cholesterol in the blood. Higher levels of LDL can contribute in building up plaque that hardens the walls of arteries.

 

More LDL in the blood increases the risk of heart diseases and stroke. LDL also causes hardening of arteries. This is the reason why high LDL is often considered bad. LDL collects in the walls of blood vessels and causes blockages. Since cholesterol is unable to dissolve in blood, it needs lipoproteins like LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and Lp(a) cholesterol to carry it through the blood vessels to different parts of the body.     

 

 

HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein. HDL is considered good cholesterol. In the case of HDL, the protein is more than that of cholesterol. HDL carries one-fourth to one-third of the blood cholesterol. HDL protects the patient against heart attacks. However, low levels of HDL can also increase the risk of heart disease. For men, less than 40 milligrams per deciliter of HDL, and for women, less than 50 milligrams per deciliter of HDL increase health risk.

 

Some experts believe that HDL can remove excess cholesterol from the arterial plaque and can slow down its buildup. LDL, HDL, Lp(a) cholesterol, and other triglycerides contribute the whole cholesterol unit that can be determined through blood tests. Lipid profile is the blood test to determine cholesterol level in the blood.

 

 

Triglycerides are forms of fat in the body. Triglycerides are converted from excess sugar and calories that are stored in the form of fat. Triglycerides are the fat carried in the blood from our diet. People suffering from heart disease and diabetes have high levels of triglycerides.

 

People with high triglycerides may have high total cholesterol levels. Intake of alcohol, smoking, and obesity are some common causes of high triglycerides. Diet containing more carbohydrates can cause high triglycerides.