HDL and LDL cholesterol

Cholesterol is an organic molecule that belongs to the lipid family and is a substance present in the body that performs very important functions, such as the synthesis of vitamin D, useful for bone health, and the maintenance of cellular stability.

Cholesterol is a fat largely produced by the body and minimally introduced with food that promotes the construction of the wall of the cells of the nervous system.

According to density and size, cholesterol is divided into two types, HDL and LDL.

LDL cholesterol is linked to low-density lipoproteins and is commonly known as bad cholesterol because it can deposit in the walls of the arteries, causing a narrowing that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

HDL cholesterol is linked to high-density lipoproteins and is referred to as good cholesterol because it has the task of removing bad cholesterol from the walls of blood vessels to transport it to the liver. If present in sufficient quantities, it plays a protective role in the prevention of heart disease, heart attack and stroke.

Total cholesterol is the sum of the blood concentrations of HDL and LDL.

Periodically checking your blood cholesterol levels is essential for heart health. An excess of bad cholesterol can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. Maintaining a balanced diet and practising constant physical activity at medium-high intensity can make a difference.