What is the difference between LDL and HDL cholesterol?

LDL is known as 'bad' cholesterol because it can lead to plaque build-up in the arteries. HDL is the 'good' cholesterol, helping to remove LDL from the arteries.

What foods help increase HDL?

Foods rich in healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, and fish rich in omega-3s like salmon can help increase HDL.

What can cause high cholesterol in children?

A diet rich in processed foods and sedentary habits are common causes, in addition to genetic factors that can also influence.

When should I start worrying about my cholesterol levels?

Cholesterol tests are recommended from the age of 20 and should be done regularly to monitor cardiovascular health.

How does physical activity help control cholesterol?

Regular exercise helps increase HDL, reduce LDL, and improve overall heart health.

What do I do if my cholesterol levels are high?

Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and exercise, is the first step. In some cases, medication may be necessary under medical supervision.

HDL Cholesterol: What It Is, Ideal Values And How To Increase It

Do you know the difference between HDL and LDL cholesterol? These two types of lipoproteins play opposing roles in heart health. While HDL is known as “good cholesterol” because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the arteries, LDL is called “bad cholesterol” because its accumulation can lead to serious cardiovascular diseases. In this article, you will learn how each type works, what the ideal values are, and what you can do to balance your levels.

Summary

Explanatory video about cholesterol:

What are the types of cholesterol and their functions

THE cholesterol is an essential fat for the functioning of the body. It is used in the production of hormones, in the formation of cell membranes and in the production of vitamin D. However, when the cholesterol levels are unbalanced, may arise health problems serious.

The two main types of cholesterol they are:

HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol: known as good cholesterol, helps to remove excess cholesterol from the arteries, transporting it to the liver to be eliminated.
LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol: called bad cholesterol, can accumulate in the arteries forming fat plaques, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Is HDL cholesterol good or bad?

THE HDL cholesterol is a high density lipoprotein which works by removing excess cholesterol from the blood and arteries. Therefore, HDL cholesterol is considered good for health. Adequate levels are associated with reduced risk of heart disease.

The HDL transports cholesterol from the liver to be eliminated, preventing the cholesterol accumulation on the walls of the arteries. In other words, it works as a “cleaner” of the veins, promoting cholesterol removal harmful.

LDL cholesterol: why is it considered bad?

THE LDL cholesterol is known as bad cholesterol because it contributes to the fat accumulation in the arteries. High levels of LDL in the blood increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, as they favor the formation of plaques that obstruct blood flow.

However, LDL It's not completely bad. It is necessary in small quantities, as it participates in the transport of cholesterol to cells that need it. The problem arises when there is high LDL levels, as this can increase the risk of disease cardiovascular.

What are the normal levels of HDL and LDL?

You ideal cholesterol values are defined based on laboratory tests and vary according to the person's risk profile. The Brazilian Society of Cardiology establishes the following goals:

Total cholesterol: below 200 mg/dL
LDL: below 100 mg/dL for healthy people, and less than 70 mg/dL for those who already have cardiovascular disease
HDL: above 60 mg/dL is considered ideal

Keep the HDL and LDL levels within the recommended limits helps to prevent heart disease and other system related issues cardiovascular.

Low HDL cholesterol: what are the risks?

Low HDL levels may indicate greater risk of cardiovascular disease. When HDL is below 40 mg/dL in men or 50 mg/dL in women, the body cannot remove excess cholesterol efficiently.

This picture may be related to:

Sedentary lifestyle
Smoking
Obesity
Diet rich in saturated fat

The combination of low HDL levels and High LDL is especially dangerous as it contributes to the development of cardiovascular diseases serious.

How to increase HDL cholesterol naturally?

The good news is that it is possible increase HDL levels with simple lifestyle changes:

Practice physical activities regularly
Include healthy fats, such as olive oil and avocado, in your diet
Consume fish rich in omega-3
Avoid excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages
Quit smoking

These actions help to strengthen the heart health and balance the good cholesterol levels and bad in the blood.

LDL and HDL: how to maintain balance?

Maintain the balance between HDL and LDL is essential for good health. The ideal is to have high levels of HDL and low LDL levels. For this, some practices are fundamental:

Balanced diet, with less saturated fat and more fibers
Body weight control
Regular physical activities
Control of the stress

This balance reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and improves quality of life.

High cholesterol levels: when to worry?

High cholesterol levels, especially LDL, can be silent and not present symptoms. Therefore, regular monitoring with blood tests is essential.

Warning signs for high cholesterol levels include:

Family history of heart problems
Hypertension
Diabetes
Overweight

If the tests indicate high total cholesterol or high LDL levels, it is necessary to adopt measures to reduce this risk.

👉 Keeping HDL cholesterol at healthy levels is essential to prevent heart disease. See this guide to the most common heart problems other forms of natural prevention.

Cholesterol tests: how they are done and what they reveal

THE cholesterol test It is simple and done with a blood sample. It measures:

Total cholesterol
LDL
HDL
Triglycerides

From this data, it is possible to calculate the non-HDL cholesterol and better understand the HDL and LDL cholesterol level in the body. The interpretation must be made by a health professional, considering individual factors and family history.

Difference Between HDL and LDL Cholesterol: Know the Difference

THE difference between HDL and LDL cholesterol is in the role that each one plays:

THE HDL can help to protect the heart, removing excess cholesterol
THE LDL is considered the main culprit by accumulation in the arteries

In summary:

HDL cholesterol = “good cholesterol”
LDL cholesterol = “bad cholesterol”

Understanding this distinction is essential to avoid the development of cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusion: How to keep cholesterol at ideal levels

Keep the cholesterol level controlled is one of the keys to a long and healthy life. The combination of healthy eating, physical exercise, regular checkups and medical monitoring can make all the difference.

Summary of key points:

THE cholesterol is an essential fat, but its excess can be harmful
THE HDL cholesterol is known as “good cholesterol” and protects the arteries
THE LDL cholesterol is the “bad cholesterol” and can clog the arteries
High levels of HDL and low LDL levels are the ideal
It is possible increase HDL naturally with healthy habits
Follow the blood cholesterol with exams is essential

Take care of your heart: keep the cholesterol levels under control and live with more quality!