Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in the cells of your body and in the foods you eat. It is essential for several bodily functions, but having high levels of certain types of cholesterol in your blood can increase your risk of heart disease. In this article, we will explore the different types of cholesterol, their roles in the body, and how to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Types of Cholesterol
Cholesterol is carried through your bloodstream by lipoproteins. There are two primary types of cholesterol:
1. Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol:
LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it can build up on the walls of your arteries, forming plaque. Over time, this plaque can narrow and block blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and an increased risk of heart disease.
2. High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol:
HDL cholesterol is known as “good” cholesterol because … Read more