Understanding the Difference between HDL and LDL
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is used by your
body to generate vitamin D, hormones, and various digestive juices required for
breaking down excess fats. The cholesterol in your body is carried by two
different types of lipoproteins - HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) and LDL (Low
Density Lipoprotein).
Our body needs a certain amount of cholesterol to function
properly. But when the amount is exceeded, it causes fat to accumulate in the
body which in turn results in obesity. High Cholesterol is the major cause of
several adverse medical conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, strokes,
coronary artery diseases and other vascular diseases. For this reason, it is
always advisable to get a cholesterol
test regularly done at a top quality blood
test lab near you.
Difference between HDL
and LDL
High Density
Lipoprotein (HDL)
HDL is also known as good cholesterol as it helps in
protecting the blood vessels becoming narrower.
Low Density
Lipoprotein
LDL is also known as bad cholesterol as it causes the blood
vessels to become narrow and fats to accumulate in the body.
How HDL Helps Us?
HDL clears the bloodstream, eliminates the bad cholesterol,
and saves you from the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. It prevents
the buildup of plaque and accumulation of fat that may lead you to get
cardiovascular diseases.
What is a Good HDL
Number to Aim for?
An average female should have a minimum HLD level of 55mg/dL
and an average man should aim for a minimum of 45mg/dL. Anything above these
numbers is considered good. The higher your HDL number the better it is.
How to Increase your
HDL Number?
Some of the best ways to increase HDL number include:
·
Quitting smoking
·
Consuming foods that are low in fat
·
Regular exercising
·
Practicing meditation to reduce the stress
levels
On the other hand, the bad cholesterol can be lowered by
consuming a healthy, well-balanced diet which is rich in all essential vitamins
and minerals. Many fruits and vegetables have shown good results when it comes
to lowering the bad cholesterol. A plant-based diet which is high in fiber can
significantly lower your bad cholesterol. Include these food items in your diet
to achieve a better results:
·
Oatmeal
·
Barley
·
Fruits and Vegetables
·
Whole Grains
·
Avocado
·
Fiber supplements
Abnormal cholesterol levels are the root cause of several
adverse medical conditions. In such a scenario, it is important to undergo a pathology test regularly in order to
save yourself from developing serious medical diseases.
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