Despite their bad connotations, cholesterol and triglycerides are necessary for numerous structures and metabolic processes in your body. They compose the majority of the plasma membranes surrounding cells, aid with the digestion of vitamins A, D, E and K and help produce energy. However, increased levels of cholesterol and triglycerides can lead to serious health risks over time. Proper supervision and regulation of cholesterol and triglycerides can help you avoid these risks.
HDL and LDL Cholesterol
Cholesterol is present in your body in two main forms: high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, and low-density lipoprotein, or LDL. HDL, generally known as "good" cholesterol, contains a high amount of protein compared to triglycerides. HDL removes excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transports it back to the liver, preventing it from building plaque inside the arteries. LDL, commonly known as "bad" cholesterol, contains a much higher percentage of triglycerides and lower protein than HDL.
HDL and LDL Target Ranges
Maintaining healthy ranges of HDL and LDL is important for overall health. U.S. medical guidelines recommend HDL levels of at least 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL for women. Levels at 60 mg/dL and above indicate very healthy HDL levels that can help to remove excess cholesterol from arterial plaque, according to the American Heart Association. Both men and women should maintain LDL blood levels between 100 and 129 mg/dL; levels below 70 mg/dL are recommended for anyone with a predisposition for heart disease, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Triglycerides and Target Range
Fat exists in the chemical form of fatty acids called triglycerides. Triglycerides can travel through the blood as free fatty acids or combine with protein and other substances to form HDL and LDL cholesterol. For optimal health, men and women should maintain triglyceride levels of 150 mg/dL and below, says the American Heart Association.
Associated Health Risks
Too many LDL molecules and triglycerides in the blood can lead to serious diseases. If LDL levels remain consistently high in the bloodstream, it can start to build plaque along artery walls. Excess triglycerides exacerbate this process by forming more molecules of LDL. Plaque buildup in the arteries can harden in a process known as atherosclerosis. Plaque deposits restrict blood flow through the arteries, which can lead to coronary artery disease and chest pain, called angina. Plaques can also tear off and cause blood clots and blockages in other blood vessels through the body. Plaque blocking the blood flow into the heart can cause a heart attack, while blood flow restriction in the arteries leading to the brain can cause a stroke.
Lifestyle Changes
You can avoid the health risks associated with increased LDL and triglycerides by making lifestyle changes. You should decrease the amount of saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol in your diet, which contribute to higher LDL and triglyceride levels. Including more heart-healthy fish, whole grains, and soluble fiber in your diet can increase HDL levels that protect the heart. Losing weight, increasing physical activity and quitting smoking also help to control cholesterol and triglycerides, the Mayo Clinic Advises.
Medication Treatment
Your physician may prescribe medications when lifestyle changes do not lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels as effectively as needed. Medications can block cholesterol synthesis in the liver, inhibit the absorption of dietary cholesterol or increase bile production in the liver, which uses excess cholesterol.
References
- "Human Physiology;" Dee Unglaub Silverthorn; 2009
- American Heart Association: Good vs. Bad Cholesterol
- MayClinic.com: High Cholesterol
- American Heart Association: Triglycerides
