HDL vs. LDL Cholesterol

2. • Cholesterol is found in all cells throughout the body. The compound is produced by the liver, and it's also found in certain foods, such as meat and dairy products. Cholesterol is needed to support digestion as well as making hormones and vitamin D. Imbalanced levels can raise the risk of certain health issues, especially cardiovascular conditions. In understanding cholesterol, it's important to differentiate between HDL and LDL, which are two lipoproteins. • • •

3. Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) • • Known as "good" cholesterol Transports cholesterol to the liver to be removed from the body Less likely to settle in and clog the arteries • • Known as “bad” cholesterol Transports cholesterol to the arteries, where it can collect in the walls Cholesterol buildup in the arteries can lead to atherosclerosis (buildup of plaque) and blood clots • •

4. • Lifestyle choices play a huge role in lowered HDL levels. Common factors include genetics, excess weight, poor diet, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle. Uncontrolled diabetes can also cause low levels of good cholesterol. • •

5. • High LDL levels are typically caused by poor lifestyle choices. Bad cholesterol is widely influenced by genetics and diet. Diets high in saturated fats, such as meat, poultry, and dairy, increase LDL. High levels of LDL can cause a variety of symptoms, including: o Extreme fatigue o Chest pain (angina) o Nausea o Shortness of breath o Numb or cold extremities • •

6. • Low levels of HDL are connected to all sorts of health risks including: o Heart disease o Cardiovascular disease o Peripheral vascular disease o Stroke o Diabetes Having low HDL levels means high LDL levels, which increases the risk of plaque buildup throughout the arteries. •

7. • You can greatly minimize the risks by: o Eating foods that are high in fiber and low in saturated fats o Maintaining a healthy weight o Staying physically active o Quitting smoking o Managing stress By maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, you greatly reduce the risk of heart disease and other heart issues, as well as diabetes. •

8. • Balanced HDL and LDL levels is important for heart and total health. You want higher HDL levels and lower LDL levels. High levels of “bad” cholesterol greatly increases the risk of poor cardiovascular health. Cholesterol levels can be rebalanced by making healthy lifestyle choices, such as exercising on a routine basis and eating a healthy diet. Quitting smoking can also minimize risks and symptoms. Have your cholesterol levels checked by your doctor to ensure your HDL and LDL are in a healthy range. • • •

9. • Crystal Run Healthcare offers various cardiology services to protect you from the severe consequences of heart disease. We specialize in preventative care and early diagnosis, thanks to a team of skilled cardiologists, all of whom are board certified. We're the only regional practice to offer state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic services, including cardiac electrophysiology, and immediate access to a state-of-the-art catheterization lab. You can easily book an appointment with many Crystal Run Healthcare physicians through the website or contact us if you need additional assistance. • • •

10. 1. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-causes-low-hdl-cholesterol-levels-698078 https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/low-levels-of-hdl-the-good-cholesterol-appear- connected-to-many-health-risks-not-just-heart-disease-2016110210626 https://medlineplus.gov/medlineplus-videos/cholesterol-good-and-bad/ https://www.healthline.com/health/hdl-vs-ldl-cholesterol https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/symptoms- causes/syc-20350800 2. 3. 4. 5.