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Cholesterol is present in the food we eat every day. While this essential lipid serves a purpose in the proper functioning of our bodies, an imbalance can easily tip the scales towards serious health concerns.
To be more mindful of the cholesterol you might consume, you must understand the differences between HDL and LDL cholesterol. This blog post will shed light on HDL and LDL cholesterol, debunk common myths, and provide insights into cholesterol management.
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is present in every cell of the body and is crucial for various physiological functions. A type of cholesterol, High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), is often referred to as "good" cholesterol because of its positive impact on cardiovascular health.
HDL cholesterol plays a variety of key roles in our bodies.
Cholesterol balance
HDL particles are smaller and denser compared to other lipoproteins. This characteristic allows them to carry cholesterol away from the peripheral tissues and back to the liver for excretion or re-utilisation. The process is known as reverse cholesterol transport, and it helps maintain cholesterol balance and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Anti-inflammatory
HDL also has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation in the blood vessels and protect LDL from oxidation. This dual role is vital in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels in terms of mmol/L and mg/dL, ensuring overall cardiovascular health.
Protection from free radicals
HDL cholesterol also protects the body from oxidative damage, providing significant defence to LDL against damage caused by free radicals and preventing the accumulation of oxidised lipids in LDL.
LDL cholesterol, sometimes known as "bad" cholesterol, contributes to plaque accumulation in the arteries, raising the risk of heart disease and stroke. Healthy adults typically have LDL cholesterol levels below 130 mg/dL (3.4 mmol/L), which can also be expressed as cholesterol mmol or mg/dl when comparing different units of measurement.
High blood cholesterol is a significant factor in the progression of atherosclerotic disease, and individuals with genetically high blood cholesterol conditions can develop coronary artery disease even in their teenage years, potentially affecting their blood supply.
Hormone regulation
Cholesterol transported by LDL also serves as a precursor for synthesising various hormones in the body, including glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and sex hormones, which regulate metabolism, electrolyte balance, and reproductive functions.
However, elevated LDL cholesterol levels can lead to plaque formation in the arteries, damaging them and promoting inflammation.
It's time to set the record straight on some common cholesterol misconceptions.
Not all LDL cholesterol is inherently harmful. The distinction between "harmful" and "not harmful" lies in the size and density of the LDL particles and their potential impact on cardiovascular health.
Large, fluffy particles are considered less harmful as they are less likely to penetrate the walls of arteries, carrying a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, small, dense particles are considered more harmful because they can more easily penetrate arterial walls, leading to plaque formation. These small and dense LDL particles are often associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events.
It's not just the overall level of LDL cholesterol that matters but also the composition and ratio of different LDL particle sizes. Regular physical activities and a healthy diet can help maintain good LDL levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
High levels of HDL cholesterol are generally beneficial. However, extremely high levels may not provide additional benefits and could indicate an underlying health issue. HDL cholesterol surpassing ideal levels may act similarly to LDL cholesterol and raise the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Maintaining moderation and balance in HDL cholesterol levels is best for optimal health.
Contrary to popular belief, eating the right kind of seafood can be beneficial for cholesterol levels. Fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help decrease triglycerides and raise HDL levels. Some seafood is low in saturated fats, making it a suitable addition to most diets.
However, certain seafood like squid and shrimp should be consumed in moderation in view of their cholesterol profile. Hence, incorporating the correct kind of seafood in moderation into your diet can enhance your cholesterol balance, promoting healthier cardiovascular health.
In Singapore, cholesterol treatment is of paramount importance for managing high cholesterol and mitigating heart disease risk, with coronary heart disease being the second most common cause of death after cancer.
Some lifestyle changes you can make to manage your cholesterol include:
It can be hard to know if you’re on the right track, though, without the help of a professional. At Lifestyle Medical Clinic, we can do screenings and provide tailored health coaching to help you manage your cholesterol levels. As part of our treatment, we may also include medications, where necessary.
Book an appointment with us today.
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