Different types of Cholesterol

Dear Ask The Doctor: I recently reviewed my cholesterol results with my doctor but the visit was so quick that I am still confused as to the different types of Cholesterol.  Can you explain them to me

Dear Peter: Thank you for your trust.  When you review your fasting blood work results with your physician. It is helpful to understand the different types of Cholesterol and how it can affect your health.

LDL
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is known as the "bad" cholesterol because it plays a role in the development of atherosclerotic plaques that clog your arteries. High LDL levels can be lowered with medications and lifestyle changes. If you have a high LDL on your blood test, it will increase your risk for coronary heart disease, vascular disease and stroke. Current guidelines recommend lowering LDL more aggressively in patients with more risk factors or known atherosclerotic plaques.

HDL
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as the "good" cholesterol because it is believed to have protective properties against heart attacks. HDL removes the excess buildup of cholesterol from arterial plaques caused by LDL.  If you have a low HDL on your blood test, you will not have the benefit of HDL's cardiac protective properties.  The best way to boost your HDL levels is through exercise. Medications have a small benefit to HDL levels

Triglycerides
Triglycerides are a form of fat made in the body. There are various factors that can cause high levels of triglycerides:  obesity, diabetes, decreased physical activity, cigarette smoking and excess consumption of alcohol.  Lifestyle modifications and medications both aid in lowering triglyceride levels.

By knowing the different types of cholesterol, you can see why too much LDL cholesterol is bad for the body, and why high levels of HDL are good. It's the balance between the types of cholesterol that tells you what your cholesterol level means and your future risk of cardiovascular disease.

I hope this makes things more clear.