Cholesterol: Do You Know The Different Types?

Myth: All cholesterol is harmful to your health!

Fact: Cholesterol is actually needed by the body to support important functions, such as making hormones and building cells.¹

Cholesterol moves through the bloodstream with the help of proteins called lipoproteins. Common types of lipoproteins include:²

• High-density lipoprotein (HDL), known as the “good” cholesterol.
• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as the “bad” cholesterol.

1. HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) – The “Good” Type of Cholesterol³

HDL (High-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, sometimes called the “good” cholesterol, carries cholesterol in the blood from different parts of the body and back to the liver. The liver then removes it from the body. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol may help lower the risk for heart disease and stroke.

2. LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) – The “Bad” Type of Cholesterol⁴

LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is sometimes called the “bad” cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque in your arteries, causing them to harden and narrow over time. As a result, blood flow to the heart may become reduced or blocked, increasing the risk of heart disease.

3. Very Low-Density Lipoprotein (VLDL)

While LDL carries cholesterol to body tissues, VLDL transports triglycerides.⁵ Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood that helps provide energy for body cells. However, high triglyceride levels may increase the risk of heart disease.⁶

4. Lifestyle changes

Some lifestyle changes can be incorporated into your daily routine to help keep your cholesterol at a healthy level. They include:

• Eating a healthy diet. Limit saturated fats which are commonly found in foods such as sausages, full-fat milk and cheese. Also, avoid trans fats, which are often found in fried and processed foods, as well as margarine. Instead, choose foods that contain unsaturated fats, such as avocados and nuts.³
• Getting regular exercise. You can aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity on most days of the week, which may help raise HDL levels and lower LDL levels.³
• Avoid smoking. Smoking may lower HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels and contribute to higher LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels.⁴
• Omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming omega-3 fatty acids through foods such as fatty fish, or through supplements when appropriate, may support heart health by lowering triglyceride levels or increase HDL cholesterol levels.⁷

Conclusion:

Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference for your future wellbeing. Stay informed about cholesterol and heart health by visiting your nearest CARiNG Pharmacy.