What’s the Difference Between Bad Cholesterol and Good Cholesterol? A Cardiologist Explains

You’ve probably heard the terms “good cholesterol” and “bad cholesterol,” but what do they actually mean?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body needs to build cells and make certain hormones. Because cholesterol doesn’t dissolve in blood, it travels through your bloodstream with proteins called lipoproteins.

Two of the most commonly discussed types are LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol.

We asked a cardiologist to explain the difference and what your cholesterol numbers mean for your heart health.

What’s LDL Cholesterol?

LDL, or low density lipoprotein, is often called “bad” cholesterol. When there’s too much LDL in the blood, it can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries. Over time, this buildup can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Your ideal LDL level can depend on your overall health and cardiovascular risk. Factors such as age, family history, blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking can all play a role.

What’s HDL Cholesterol?

HDL, or high density lipoprotein, is often called “good” cholesterol. It helps transport cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it can be processed and removed from the body.

While higher HDL levels are generally associated with better heart health, HDL is only one part of the picture. Your doctor will consider your HDL along with your LDL, triglycerides, and other risk factors.

What About Triglycerides?

A cholesterol test, also called a lipid panel, typically measures LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and total cholesterol.

Triglycerides are another type of fat in the blood. High triglycerides can also contribute to cardiovascular risk, particularly when combined with other unhealthy cholesterol levels.

How Can You Support Healthy Cholesterol Levels?

Healthy lifestyle habits can help support your cholesterol and overall heart health. These include:

• Eating more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, and lean proteins
• Limiting foods high in saturated and trans fats
• Staying physically active
• Avoiding tobacco
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Taking cholesterol medications as prescribed, when recommended by your doctor

There’s no single cholesterol number that tells the whole story. Your doctor can help you understand your cholesterol levels and determine what they mean for your individual heart health.

Have questions about your cholesterol or heart health? The experts at Jackson Heart Institute are here to help you understand your cardiovascular health and make informed decisions about your care. Click here to learn more.