You probably know that having high levels of cholesterol can be bad for your health. But you should also know your body also uses cholesterol to make hormones, cell membranes and substances needed to digest fats. As a result, not all cholesterol is bad for you. The main kind of cholesterol associated with disease is known as low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, cholesterol.
Lipoproteins
Cholesterol and other kinds of lipids cannot travel in the blood on their own because they do not mix well with the aqueous environment of the blood. As a result, cholesterol and another kind of lipid, known as triglycerides, are packaged along with proteins by the liver to form complexes know as lipoproteins. There are many different kinds of lipoproteins but the two most important are the low-density and high-density lipoproteins -- LDL and HDL.
Role in Atherosclerosis
LDL cholesterol is commonly known as the "bad" form of cholesterol because of its role in atherosclerosis.LDL is responsible for transporting cholesterol from the liver to other tissues in the body. It is the low-density lipoproteins which can deposit cholesterol in the walls of the arteries. When cholesterol accumulates in arterial walls, the arteries become stiff, narrow and can become clogged, which can result in heart disease or a stroke.
Levels
LDL cholesterol is usually measured as part of a blood test known as a lipid panel. The optimal amount of LDL cholesterol is less than 100mg/dL. Concentrations between 100 and 129mg/dL are classified as near optimal, and between 130 and 159mg/dL is borderline high. If your LDL cholesterol is above 160mg/dL, you have high LDL levels, and if your LDL concentration is above 189mg/dL, you have very high LDL levels and have an increased risk of developing heart disease.
Fat Sources
High LDL levels are associated with excessive intake of certain kinds of fats. Saturated fats are the most common culprit for increased LDL levels, the American Heart Association explains. Trans fats, which can be found in margarine and processed foods can also raise LDL cholesterol levels. Dietary cholesterol can also result in elevated amounts of LDL in the blood.
Lowering LDL
LDL levels can be lowered in a variety of ways. Many medications, such as statins, fibrates and bile-acid binding resins can be used to reduce the amount of LDL in the blood. A healthy diet that is low in cholesterol and saturated fats can also help lower LDL concentrations. Starting an exercise program is another way in which you can keep your LDL levels under control.
