How Do You Differentiate HDL And LDL Cholesterol?
It is essential to differentiate between the different types of lipids in the blood. Blood cholesterol is either LDL (low-density lipoproteins) or HDL (high-density lipoproteins). LDL cholesterol typically makes up 60 to 70 percent of total blood cholesterol, while HDL cholesterol usually makes up 20 to 30 percent. LDL particles are commonly called “bad cholesterol” because they carry cholesterol to the tissues, causing atherosclerosis and heart disease. HDL actually carries cholesterol away from the arteries and other tissues back to the liver, where it is broken down and eliminated from the body as bile acids. Consult with your doctor. To differentiate between HDL and LDL cholesterol, you must have a fasting lipoprotein analysis. This test provides four values–one each for your total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Fast. You must not eat or drink (except water) for 14 hours before the test. You must also abstain from alcohol for 48 hours. A non
