Called the "bad" cholesterol by many, low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, earned its unkind nickname by causing blockages in coronary arteries that lead to heart disease and heart attacks. This only occurs, however, when the level of LDL cholesterol in the blood is too high. Recognizing those factors that will raise your LDL level is key to remaining healthy.
LDL Cholesterol Levels
When it comes to LDL cholesterol levels, lower is definitely better. The acceptable number may differ from one person to the next, depending on where you fall on the risk scale. If you are at high risk of heart disease, such as someone with high blood pressure, then you will want to aim for a lower LDL level than someone without that risk factor. The Mayo Clinic suggests that the average person should set sights on an LDL level below 130 mg/dL. This number drops to 100 mg/dL for someone at risk of heart disease, and 70 mg/dL if you fall into the very high risk category.
LDL Cholesterol Sources
When you look at your cholesterol levels, keep in mind that the cholesterol in your body comes from two sources. Some is produced by your body, which accounts for about 75 percent of the cholesterol found in your blood. The animal products you eat are responsible for the additional 25 percent. This distribution allows a large measure of control because you can limit the amount of cholesterol containing food you eat, and you can limit your fat intake.
It May Be Your Genes
The body produces cholesterol, which is used in the production of cell membranes and some hormones. Some people inherit a genetic mutation that causes them to have higher LDL levels in the blood than is normal. This condition is known as familial hypercholesterolaemia, and it affects approximately 1 in 500 people in most countries, according to the National Institute of Health's Genetics Home Reference.
It Could be Your Food
Meat, fish, dairy products and eggs are all foods that contain cholesterol and, if not eaten in moderation, could increase your LDL cholesterol level. A diet that incorporates foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as snack foods, fast foods, cakes, cookies, French fries and processed foods, will also serve to raise cholesterol levels.
It Might Be Your Couch
It is commonly understood that exercise burns fat. It cannot burn off cholesterol, but Fit Facts from the American Council on Exercise explains that adequate exercise can promote the conversion of some cholesterol to the more favorable high-density lipoprotein or HDL form. A sedentary lifestyle means no fat is being burned, and more fat in the body means more cholesterol being produced.
It May Be Your Choice
Knowing what elements can lead to an increase in LDL cholesterol levels provides the chance to take control and do everything possible to reach for and maintain an acceptable level. Be conscious of your diet, keep it low-fat and relax on the couch after exercising.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Cholesterol levels: What Numbers Should You Aim For?
- American Heart Association: About Cholesterol
- National Institute of Health Genetics Home Reference: What is hypercholesterolemia?
- Family Doctor: Dietary Fats: What''s Good and What's Bad
- American Council on Exercise Fit Facts: Managing Cholesterol With Exercise
