Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in our blood. It does not dissolve in blood. A carrier molecule called lipoprotein helps in its transport to and from the cells in our body. There are three types of cholesterol and LDL cholesterol is one among them. It stands for low density lipoprotein. The word low density implies that this form of cholesterol has lowest proportion of protein in it.
Why LDL Cholesterol is called the Bad Cholesterol?
LDL is known to be bad cholesterol as it is associated with the formation of hard cell debris in the walls of the heart called plaque. It increases the risk of heart diseases and stroke. The actual reason cited for LDL to be bad cholesterol is not correct always. The term is a misnomer.
The lipoprotein carriers which transport LDL to the cells are the same which carry other forms of this substance in the blood. But the mechanism, location where this cholesterol is transported and the amount which account for the adverse effects.
What are the Recommended Levels of LDL Cholesterol?
In the United States, this cholesterol is measured in terms of milligrams per deciliter (dL) of blood. The recommended level and its meaning are:
| S.No. | LDL Level in mg/dL | Meaning |
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A technique called the nuclear magnetic resonance or NMR can directly measure LDL cholesterol. This technique has been recognized by the American Diabetes Association and the American College of Cardiology in the year 2008.
Facts about LDL Cholesterol:
- Smoking, obesity, family history of heart diseases and high blood pressure are the risk factors of form of cholesterol.
- Regular exercise, lowering intake of white bread, bleached processed flour, sweet breakfast foods, corn syrups and consumption of alcohol in moderate level are good practices.
- Total cholesterol levels are to be checked as per government health guidelines for every five years once an individual crosses 20 years of age.
