What is the Difference Between HDL And LDL?

The main difference between HDL and LDL cholesterol lies in their functions and effects on the body. There are two main types of cholesterol: high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL).

• HDL (Good Cholesterol): HDL helps rid the body of excess cholesterol, transporting it to the liver to be released. A healthy level of HDL may protect against heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease (PAD). HDL comprises about one-third to one-fourth of blood cholesterol.
• LDL (Bad Cholesterol): LDL is considered the "bad" cholesterol because it contributes to fatty buildups in arteries (atherosclerosis), narrowing the arteries and increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and PAD. Too much cholesterol in the arteries may lead to a buildup of plaque, known as atherosclerosis.

In summary, HDL is considered "good" cholesterol because it removes excess cholesterol from the body, while LDL is considered "bad" cholesterol because it contributes to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.

Comparative Table: HDL And LDL

The two main types of cholesterol are high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Here is a table highlighting the differences between HDL and LDL cholesterol:

HDL cholesterol is considered "good" because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the body, reducing the risk of heart disease. On the other hand, LDL cholesterol is considered "bad" because it deposits cholesterol in arteries, leading to plaque buildup and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Maintaining healthy levels of HDL and LDL cholesterol is essential for reducing the risk of heart disease and other health complications.