Heart Health: Good vs. Bad Cholesterol
When you hear the word “cholesterol”, what comes to mind? Cholesterol often has a negative connotation, but it’s important to understand the good and bad it does for the human body.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in every cell of the body, needed for making vitamin D and hormones, and aiding in digestion. It can be found in many of the foods we eat, particularly animal products.
High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are considered “good” cholesterol, responsible for carrying cholesterol back to the liver. On the other hand, low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are considered “bad” cholesterol, and can lead to plaque buildup in blood vessels.
Risks of high cholesterol include cardiovascular disease, strokes, heart attacks, diabetes complications, high blood pressure, and peripheral artery disease (PAD).
To manage cholesterol levels, getting checked regularly, making dietary changes, staying active, avoiding tobacco products, managing stress, and being aware of family history are all important steps to take.
Having a better understanding of different types of cholesterol and how they affect your body is a great first step in taking control of your heart health.
