Low density lipoprotein sounds complicated, but it is really the long name for what we normally call LDL. LDL is a factor in your total cholesterol count, and is commonly considered the “bad” cholesterol. LDL serves a vital function in your system, taking cholesterol from your liver through your arteries to parts of your body that need it.

The reason it is “bad” cholesterol is that the cholesterol being transported can start to cause fatty deposits and plaque in your arteries if there is too much of it, leading to heart disease, cardiovascular disease, arthrosclerosis, and more. The more “bad” cholesterol flowing (or not flowing, rather) through your veins, the more chance to have to get these diseases and conditions.

LDL has been proven to be a leading cause of heart problems. LDL is made up of a combination of fats called lipids and protein. The best levels of LDL in your system are less than 100 mg/dl. Once you creep past that you need to start watching your cholesterol intake. You can do this by eliminating saturated fat and trans fats from your diet, concentrating on the monounsaturated, or “good” fat.

Did you know that lower levels of LDL can be an indicator of problems as well? If you drop too far below 70 mg/dl, it’s just as bad as being over 100. This can indicate conditions where your body is not absorbing nutrients, like Celiac’s or Chron’s disease, and could lead to malnutrition. In that case you need to see your doctor for a safe way to balance your cholesterol levels.

Certain medications may cause higher levels of LDL to show on tests, and can complicate a heart and cardiovascular treatment plan where lower cholesterol is a goal. These medications are corticosteroids, aspirin, birth control pills, phenothiazines and sulfonamides. If you take these medications, talk to your doctor about the effects they may be having on your heart health.

Exercise, even in moderate amounts, decreases LDL levels in the blood. Smoking and alcohol consumption more than one or two drinks a day increases LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. Smoking and alcohol also have added risk factors for heart disease and poor liver function.

Losing weight safely also helps lower LDL cholesterol levels. You don’t have to be supermodel thin to be healthy, but keeping your body mass index within your healthy range for your size is essential to your health. If you are significantly overweight and having trouble losing, talk to your doctor. They may be able to help you kick start your weight loss.

Regardless of how you lower your LDL cholesterol levels, lowering them will lead to better health and a longer, happier life. So talk to your doctor, eat healthy and be active. Doing those simple things will put you on the path the better health.

Ldl Cholesterol | Medical Disclaimer |