Introduction to High Blood Cholesterol

Types of Cholesterol

In general, there are two types of cholesterol:

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL):

  • carries most of the cholesterol in the bloodstream
  • commonly called "bad" cholesterol because too much LDL in the bloodstream can cause blocked arteries and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke

• High-density lipoprotein (HDL):

  • commonly called "good" cholesterol
  • HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and, thereby, prevents plaque accumulation in the arteries

Another type of fat (lipid) produced by the body and also found in certain foods is known as triglycerides. High levels of triglycerides in the bloodstream also increase a person's risk for developing coronary artery disease (CAD). To reduce the risk of developing CAD, it is important for people to maintain optimal blood levels of both cholesterol and triglycerides. This can usually be accomplished by a variety of lifestyle strategies such as:

• Maintaining optimal weight
• Minimizing dietary intake of foods that are rich in cholesterol and fats
• Avoidance of smoking
• Getting regular exercise
• Cholesterol-lowering medications (if necessary)