"Good" and "Bad" Cholesterol

Cholesterol molecules travel through the bloodstream in globular packages in combination with lipoproteins, and there are different kinds, depending on their size, density, and stability.

HDL

High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are small, dense molecules responsible for transporting cholesterol to the liver. This type of cholesterol is actually good for your body because it helps remove cholesterol from the arteries and protects against dangerous blockages (plaques) in the arteries. HDL cholesterol is also less likely than other forms of cholesterol to oxidize and leave sticky plaques on artery walls.

People who exercise, do not smoke, and maintain a healthy weight tend to have higher levels of HDL. Low HDL levels can be a risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD), while high levels (>60 mg/dL) help reduce CHD risk.

LDL

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) carries the majority of cholesterol through the bloodstream and delivers it to the cells of the body. These molecules are larger, less dense, and less stable than HDL, and they readily oxidize and deposit plaques on arterial walls. Therefore, LDL is known as the "bad" cholesterol because it is more likely to clog arteries and lead to heart disease.