Introduction to LDL Cholesterol

If you dropped in here to learn more about cholesterol levels in the body, you might already be aware of the two different forms of cholesterol in the human body. One is called HDL or high density lipoproteins and the other is LDL which stands of low density lipoproteins. Both these lipoproteins are responsible for the transportation of cholesterol in the body.

LDL's are often referred to as the bad cholesterol. HDL is called the good cholesterol as it transports excess cholesterol from various parts of the body to the liver which then converts the cholesterol into bile fluid. LDL on the other hand is called bad cholesterol because it transports cholesterol to other tissues in the body. While it is essential that LDL's transport this cholesterol to various parts of the body, an excess level of LDL's can cause problems that are mentioned below.

When LDL deposits cholesterol in other parts of the body, it can also deposit cholesterol in the arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that are responsible to carry blood away from the heart. High LDL levels in the body can cause the arteries to harden and clog up, thus disrupting the functions of the heart and increasing the chances of heart related problems such as heart attacks.

It is important for one to monitor their cholesterol levels on a regular basis. Ideally, one should have healthy ranges when it comes to both the good cholesterol and the bad cholesterol. Though a healthy range will vary from person to person according to their characteristics, it is generally accepted that LDL levels above 100 mg/DL are unhealthy or less than optimal.

There are many reasons that might explain a high LDL level in the body. One of them is genetics which will unfortunately cause a person to have high LDL levels regardless of their healthy lifestyles. For most people however, high LDL levels are often the result of a bad diet or a lifestyle that is very sedentary in nature.

Foods that are high in trans-fat can easily drive up LDL levels in the body. Foods high in saturated fat are also not recommended if you want to keep your LDL levels normal. For patients who have already suffered a heart attack, it is vital that they monitor their cholesterol levels on a regular basis and strive to be very careful about their diet and lifestyle.

LDL cholesterol is no joke. Get tested so you know your levels, and can take any medical steps that are necessary.

Thomas Ajava writes about howlowercholesterol.com how lower cholesterol can be the key to staving off heart disease, the number one killer, for HowLowerCholestrol.com.