The dangers of high cholesterol levels are no secret. However, many people struggle to differentiate between the cholesterol in their body that could be causing some damages to their heart and the other cholesterol which could actually be helping to improve their health and protect them against stroke and heart disease.
Cholesterol, which is the fatty waxy substance that is absorbed by your body when you consume certain foods and is produced naturally by the liver, cannot dissolve in the blood. Instead, this substance needs to be transported throughout your bloodstream by lipoproteins. These lipoproteins are made from lipids and proteins, and come in two different versions: high-density lipoproteins (HDL), and low-density lipoproteins (LDL).
While HDL can help to reduce problems within your body, and make an effort to remove less beneficial cholesterol from your body, LDL is a microscopic collection of particles made up of the outer lipoprotein rim. This LDL is responsible for building up plaque in your arteries that can lead to serious health issues. Alongside HDL, LDL cholesterol levels and a fifth of your triglyceride level are combined together to determine your complete cholesterol count.
Bad LDL Cholesterol Levels
Generally, health professionals and doctors agree that a lower LDL cholesterol level is often better for the health of your heart. LDL is referred to as the bad type of cholesterol because it makes a significant contribution to plaque that builds up within the arteries. This is a thick and hard deposit that can impede blood flow throughout the body. This condition is frequently referred to as atherosclerosis, and when a person suffers from it, they also suffer from the risk of a clot forming and leading to a blocked or narrowed artery, which may then causes a stroke or heart attack. What's more, another condition known as peripheral artery disease, can also take place when plaque leads to a narrowed artery which makes it difficult to transport blood to the legs.
Interestingly, however, your LDL cholesterol levels should no longer be the number one factor considered when attempting the prevention of stroke and heart attacks. According to guidelines posted by the American Heart Association, patients in need of statins must observe their cholesterol levels with a more comprehensive basis.
What LDL Cholesterol Levels Mean
While sudden heart attacks and other health problems are difficult to predict, regardless of pre-existing conditions, doctors agree that a higher level of LDL cholesterol is likely to increase your risk of cardiovascular problems. Of course, improving your health outlook means more than simply cutting down LDL cholesterol. Instead, you and your doctor will need to work to develop a personalized strategy for maintaining better cholesterol levels, and reduce risks of heart disease and stroke.
Typically, these plans will include things like a dedication to regular aerobic exercise that is helpful for getting the heart pumping. What's more, it can be a good idea to look into eating a more nutritious diet that avoids as many saturated fats as possible. Generally, good health begins with changing unhealthy habits and lifestyle choices.