Both low-density lipoprotien, or LDL cholesterol and triglycerides are found in the bloodstream. Cholesterol and triglycerides are essential for good health, but at high levels, they negatively impact the cardiovascular system. Preventing high levels involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, eating ample fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and consuming less saturated fat.
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a large molecule that is found in cell membranes and in the bloodstream. Cholesterol is an important element of cell membrane structure and is also vital in the production of bile acids and some hormones. However, too much cholesterol in the body can contribute to heart disease.
LDL Cholesterol
A lipoprotein is a type of fat that flows in the bloodstream and there are a few types of lipoproteins, including LDL. LDL cholesterol is often called the "bad" cholesterol because it is deposited along the interior walls of arteries as it flows through the bloodstream. The accumulated deposits contribute to clogged arteries and atherosclerosis, or a condition characteristic of hardened and narrowed arteries from the buildup of cholesterol, fat and other substances.
Triglycerides
A triglyceride is a form of fat that is stored in the body for energy and also travels through the bloodstream. Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the body and in foods, according to authors Neil Campbell, Ph.D., Jane Reece, Ph.D. and Lawrence Mitchell, Ph.D. in "Biology." They supply about twice as much energy as protein and carbohydrates and are needed for proper health. However, having too much triglyceride in the body or blood increases the risk of heart disease.
LDL Cholesterol and Triglycerides
Heart disease is not developed by high blood triglyceride levels alone. People with high triglyceride levels typically have other conditions contributing to atherosclerosis and other heart conditions. One such other condition is having high LDL cholesterol levels in the blood.
Improving Health
The American Heart Association recommends keeping a LDL cholesterol blood level below 100mg/dL and a triglyceride blood level below 150mg/dL. Modifying lifestyle may help lower the levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Some of these modifications include losing weight if overweight or obese, increasing physical activity, eating more vegetables and whole grains and less fat and drinking alcohol in moderation, according to an article in the July 2006 issue of "Circulation."
References
- American Heart Association: What Your Cholesterol Levels Mean
- "Biology"; Neil Campbell, Ph.D., Jane Reece, Ph.D., and Lawrence Mitchell, Ph.D.; 2001.
- "Circulation"; Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations Revision 2006: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association Nutrition Committee; Alice Lichtenstein, Dsc et al.; July 2006.
