What are LDL and HDL cholesterol and lipoproteins?
Cholesterol travels through your blood attached to a protein. This cholesterol-protein package is called a lipoprotein. Lipoproteins are either high density, low density, or very low density, depending on how much protein there is in relation to fat. • Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) is called “bad” cholesterol because it can cause cholesterol buildup and blockage of your arteries. blocked artery .) LDL is mostly fat with only a small amount of protein. By lowering LDL cholesterol, you can reduce your risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, and other complications. • An LDL level of less than 100 mg/dL (less than 2.6 mmol/L) is considered optimal. • An LDL level of 100 to 129 mg/dL (2.6 to 3.35 mmol/L) is considered near optimal or above optimal. • An LDL level of 130 to 159 mg/dL (3.35 mmol/L to 4.10 mmol/L) is considered borderline high. • An LDL level of 160 to 189 mg/dL (4.12 to 4.88 mmol/L) is considered high. • An LDL level of 190 and above (4.90 mmol/L and great
