desk
Share
News Topical, Digital Desk : Foodies often complain of high cholesterol, a result of their unhealthy diet and irregular diet. Amidst all this, people have come to a simple conclusion, dividing cholesterol into two parts: good and bad. LDL is called bad cholesterol, and HDL is called good cholesterol. Seeing HDL numbers in their reports makes people happy, but is this belief true, or is there some other truth behind it? Let's find out.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy fat that helps our bodies build cells, vitamin D, and hormones. Our liver produces cholesterol as needed, but we also consume significant amounts through food and drink. While essential, high levels can cause plaque to build up on artery walls, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Is LDL really bad cholesterol?
LDL is often blamed for heart disease, but not all LDL is the same. Some LDL particles are large and light, while others are small and dense. It is the small and dense particles that play a greater role in plaque formation in the arteries. According to Dr. Diwakar Kumar of Asian Hospital, "Not all LDL is harmful; a single LDL number doesn't tell the whole picture. Even if two people have the same LDL level, their effects can vary."
Is HDL really good cholesterol?
HDL is commonly referred to as good cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the blood, but a high level doesn't always guarantee safety. According to Dr. Kumar, "If HDL levels are too high, it can be a cause for concern, especially when lifestyle choices are not healthy." According to Dr. Neha Shah, "It's true that HDL protects the body and LDL increases risk, but these numbers alone don't reveal the full truth. For example, two people with 44 HDL can be different if their triglycerides are different—one with 90 and the other with 210. The number is the same, but its impact on the body's condition is different. The same applies to LDL. The report only shows the number, but the real difference lies in its small and dense particles, which can damage the blood vessels."
How to avoid the dangers of cholesterol?
Cholesterol is affected by your daily habits. Lack of sleep, excessive stress, smoking, and ultra-processed foods can put you at risk for high cholesterol. Regular exercise is beneficial to prevent this. Additionally, it's important to eat a balanced and healthy diet daily, and practicing yoga or meditation can also be helpful in reducing stress.
--Advertisement--
