High-density lipoprotein cholesterol is sometimes called “good” cholesterol. HDL cholesterol helps remove LDL cholesterol from the body by binding with it in the bloodstream and carrying it back to the liver for disposal. A high level of HDL cholesterol appears to lower your risk of developing heart disease and stroke.

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is sometimes called “bad” cholesterol. LDL cholesterol collects inside the walls of the arteries and often contributes to the formation of plaque. LDL cholesterol is calculated from the total cholesterol, HDL, and triglyceride levels.

A high LDL cholesterol level is considered a risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD) because, under certain conditions, it can cause hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis).Cholesterol is measured either in milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL) or in millimoles per liter of blood (mmol/L).An LDL cholesterol level of less than 100 mg/dL (less than 2.6 mmol/L) is considered optimal.100 to 129 (2.6 to 3.35) is considered near optimal. 130 to 158 (3.35 to 4.10) is considered borderline high.160 to 189 (4.12 to 4.88) is considered high.190 and above (4.90 to 4.88) is considered very high.
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With this in mind there are factors that work against lowering LDL “bad” cholesterol:
1. Your family history can play into your cholesterol equation. Since high cholesterol runs in my family I have genetics working against me as well.
2. Stress may lead to an increase in blood cholesterol
3. Smoking may raise LDL cholesterol
4. Foods with Saturated fat can raise LDL cholesterol

Factors that can lower LDL “bad” cholesterol
1. Exercise raises HDL cholesterol and lowers LDL cholesterol
2. Reduce the stress in your life
3. Stop smoking
4. A high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish

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