For cholesterol to reach your cells and perform its functions -- produce hormones and build new cell membranes -- it needs to dissolve in the blood. Cholesterol is unable to do this, and must rely on special protein carriers. These carriers are high-density lipoprotein, HDL, and low-density lipoprotein, LDL. Both can increase or decrease your risk of heart disease if they are not within a healthy balance.
The Definition of LDL
LDL is the main carrier of cholesterol in your blood. It binds to cholesterol, transporting it to your cells so the cholesterol can execute its intended purpose. Your liver produces the exact amount of cholesterol your body needs -- the excess amount comes from the foods you eat. The higher your cholesterol levels, the higher your LDL. Over time, this carrier builds up along the walls of your arteries, blocking blood flow to your brain or heart. This increases both your risk of heart disease, as well as your risk of heart attack and/or stroke. For this reason, LDL is known as the bad cholesterol. A healthy LDL amount is 100 to 129 mg/dL.
The Definition of HDL
HDL carries approximately one-fourth to one-third of all cholesterol in your blood. The purpose of HDL is to rid your body of excess LDL and reduce your risk of heart disease. It scours your blood and arteries, attaching itself to your LDL cholesterol, transporting it from your body; for this reason it is known as your good cholesterol. You must have enough HDL in your blood for this to occur. A healthy level is 60 mg/dL or more, according to the American Heart Association.
Cholesterol Testing
Neither good nor bad cholesterol displays symptoms. You must have a blood test called a lipid profile before your doctor knows what your cholesterol levels are. Once you are 20 years old, you should undergo this test once every five years. Should you have any risk factors, such as a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, habits such as smoking or being overweight, your doctor may decide more frequent testing is appropriate for you.
Treatment
Treatment for high LDL or low HDL is basically the same. Your diet plays the most important role. Cut back on saturated fats, limiting them to 7 percent of your total daily calories. Eat more poultry and fish in place of red meat, lamb and pork. Choose non-fat dairy over whole-fat and egg substitutes instead of egg yolks. Consume whole grains and high fiber foods such as whole grain bread, oats, whole wheat pasta, brown rice, beans, fruits and vegetables. High fiber foods, especially soluble fiber such as fruit and oatmeal, absorb cholesterol in your intestines and flush it from your body. Lose excess weight, as this is a common risk factor for both high LDL and low HDL levels. Five to 10 lbs. can make a difference in your bad cholesterol, and a 6 lb. loss can increase your HDL cholesterol by 1 mg/ dL, explains MayoClinic.com. Regular exercise helps decrease the bad and increase the good. Begin with a 30-minute routine of walking, jogging or swimming, gradually increasing your time between 45 to 60 minute a day most days of the week.
Medications
A plethora of cholesterol-lowering medications exist, and are an option when dietary and lifestyle changes are not enough. Statins are usually the drug of choice when your LDL levels are too high, while niacin is the most effective for HDL. In some cases you may need a combination of both, depending on your situation.
