HDL
HDL or High Density Lipoprotein is a “helper molecule” that assists in the transfer of cholesterol to the body. HDL is high density because it is more dense compared to other cholesterol molecules, but HDL is a smaller molecule than LDL. HDL also transports more protein than cholesterol. HDL also reduces, recycles, and reuses LDL by transporting it to the liver where it can be used later, and the LDL can also turn into bile which aids in digestion.
The Myth of HDL
HDL is usually referred to as the good type of cholesterol and LDL being the bad type. However; that is not true. As you know, LDL or Low Density Lipoprotein is not all ways the bad guy around, it actually supplies vital cholesterol to our cells, but sometimes LDL tends to stick to the artery wall as time goes by and can cause many problems relating to blood flow and the heart’s functioning. If this becomes too much of a problem, the liver will release High Density Lipoprotein to go to the clogged part of the blood vessel and “clean it up”. HDL is like the maintenance guy or custodian who travels the bloodstream and cleans up the clogging in blood vessels. This is why our society refers to HDL being the good cholesterol, but now you know that HDL is neither cholesterol nor always “the good guy”. Both HDL and LDL serve vital properties to our cells and bodies to survive.
HDL Levels and Quantity
Having a good level of HDL consists of having a level more than 60. Too little of HDL can bring problems as well. There are many ways to boost the amount of HDL in your body and bloodstream. Studies have shown that maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating foods like nuts and olives, and quitting bad habits like smoking can lead to higher levels of HDL. Genetics, obesity, smoking, and other health issues can have a big impact on your HDL levels as well.
HDL or High Density Lipoprotein is a “helper molecule” that assists in the transfer of cholesterol to the body. HDL is high density because it is more dense compared to other cholesterol molecules, but HDL is a smaller molecule than LDL. HDL also transports more protein than cholesterol. HDL also reduces, recycles, and reuses LDL by transporting it to the liver where it can be used later, and the LDL can also turn into bile which aids in digestion.
The Myth of HDL
HDL is usually referred to as the good type of cholesterol and LDL being the bad type. However; that is not true. As you know, LDL or Low Density Lipoprotein is not all ways the bad guy around, it actually supplies vital cholesterol to our cells, but sometimes LDL tends to stick to the artery wall as time goes by and can cause many problems relating to blood flow and the heart’s functioning. If this becomes too much of a problem, the liver will release High Density Lipoprotein to go to the clogged part of the blood vessel and “clean it up”. HDL is like the maintenance guy or custodian who travels the bloodstream and cleans up the clogging in blood vessels. This is why our society refers to HDL being the good cholesterol, but now you know that HDL is neither cholesterol nor always “the good guy”. Both HDL and LDL serve vital properties to our cells and bodies to survive.
HDL Levels and Quantity
Having a good level of HDL consists of having a level more than 60. Too little of HDL can bring problems as well. There are many ways to boost the amount of HDL in your body and bloodstream. Studies have shown that maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating foods like nuts and olives, and quitting bad habits like smoking can lead to higher levels of HDL. Genetics, obesity, smoking, and other health issues can have a big impact on your HDL levels as well.