Good and Bad Cholesterol - What's The Difference?

Good and bad cholesterol

Not all cholesterol is created equal – there is both good and bad cholesterol. Understanding the different types of cholesterol is important for making the right choices for your diet.

There are two types lipoproteins, which are known as the good and bad cholesterol. The first is low-density lipoprotein (LDL) that is known as the bad cholesterol. When you have too much LDL cholesterol in the blood, it slowly builds up along the artery walls that lead to the heart and to the brain. Over time, the arteries harden and become clogged with a substance known as plaque, a condition known as atherosclerosis. A clot can cause a heart attack or stroke.

Fortunately, there is both good and bad cholesterol running through the body. High density lipoprotein (HDL) carries the cholesterol through the arteries and onto the liver. More importantly, HDL cholesterol actually helps remove the buildup of LDL cholesterol in the arteries.

Most of the cholesterol in our blood is produced by the body, with the balance coming from diet we consume. The choices we make at the grocery store determine our good and bad cholesterol levels. The main foods to avoid are those high in saturated and trans fatty acids, such as deep fried and battered foods. Not only are these foods high in calories, they are high in the bad LDL cholesterol as well. You should look for goods with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, such as nuts and fish, to help lower your LDL cholesterol levels.

Eating foods high in HDL cholesterol is ideal, as it improves both our good and bad cholesterol. Foods that raise HDL cholesterol levels include oat bran, apples, pears, and fish containing Omega-3 fatty acids.

Watching your diet closely for good and bad cholesterol is important for your heart health.