Is LDL cholesterol really bad?
Posted: Sunday, March 13, 2011
by Lisa Nelson
Be Heart Healthy and Lose Weight
HDL cholesterol is typically referred to as the “good” cholesterol and LDL cholesterol as the “bad” cholesterol, but is this really accurate?
The label given to LDL cholesterol of “bad” and HDL “good” cholesterol tends to be misunderstood.
Dietary Cholesterol
“Good” and “Bad” Cholesterol
LDL cholesterols potential for oxidation which leads to the development of arterial plaque has given it the rap of being “bad”. While HDL cholesterol contains more protein and tends to pick up cholesterol dropped throughout your arteries and returns it to the liver giving it the role of being “good”.
However, I think it’s very important for you to realize that there are “good” and “bad” forms of LDL cholesterol and “good” and “bad” forms of HDL cholesterol.
It depends on their particle size and density. A standard cholesterol test does not measure the different particle sizes. If you are considering medication to treat elevated cholesterol levels I encourage you to discuss a comprehensive lipid panel with your physician. This will give you insight into your particle sizes to fully see what is healthy and what is not and you along with your doctor will be able to better determine the appropriate treatment plan for you.
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