What's the Difference Between Good and Bad Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a vital part of measuring your overall health. While seeking to avoid cholesterol altogether may be a good strategy for some, what some people don't understand is that there is more than one type of cholesterol. Cholesterol is different than other substances because it can't dissolve in the blood stream. It utilizes carriers, called lipoproteins, to transport it. When cholesterol is very high it can build up along the arterial walls, causing blockages. Some cholesterol is called good (or HDL), another type is called bad (or LDL), and then there are also triglycerides and Lp(a) cholesterol.

Good cholesterol, or High Density Lipoproteins (HDL), is vital to health. High levels of this is shown to prevent heart attack, and its believed that HDL is responsible for carrying cholesterol away from arteries and to the liver, its last stop before exiting the body. Experts think that HDL is also responsible for removing excess cholesterol from arterial walls. To increase HDL, eat foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids or take a fish oil supplement, use a lot of garlic, and eat more walnuts. Losing weight through a healthy diet is another way to assist your body in raising HDL levels. Add exercise to experience quick weight loss.

Bad cholesterol, also called Low Density Lipoproteins (LDL), is what you need to avoid. Too much of this in your blood can line your artery walls and combine with other substances to create plaque. When this occurs, blood cannot flow freely to where it is needed, creating blood clots. If the artery becomes completely blocked, a stroke or heart attack may occur. Stay away from foods high in cholesterol and saturated fat, especially trans fats. If hunger is a real problem, consider using a natural appetite suppressant like hoodia to help with the cravings.

Triglycerides and Lp(a) cholesterol are both things to avoid. Not much is known yet about Lp(a), except that it may be responsible for fatty deposits on artery walls. People with a high total cholesterol, including large amounts of LDL but lower HDL usually have a high amount of triglycerides in their system. Other contributors include obesity, cigarette smoking, lack of physical activity, and poor diet. Many times people who already have diabetes or heart disease have a high level of triglycerides.

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