LDL: makes up the majority of the body’s cholesterol
HDL: takes in cholesterol and carries it back to the liver (flushes our of body)
LDL and HDL differ structurally and functionally: LDL: 50% cholesterol and 25% protein. takes cholesterol to the rest of the body HDL: 20% cholesterol and 50% protein. Takes cholesterol from heart and other organs to the liver to be disposed of.
During a blood test, LDL and HDL are both monitored along with other things because they are used to help evaluate the patient's risk of heart disease
An excess of LDL can result in plaque buildup on arterial walls. That is the hardening of the arteries --> lead to heart diseases like a heart attack or stroke. Unlike LDL, higher HDL levels can actually lower the risk of heart disease.
While LDL and HDL are being monitored, triglycerides, blood sugar level and total cholesterol are monitored.
In addition to measuring the total cholesterol in your blood, the standard cholesterol test measures three specific kinds of fat LDL , HDL, and triglycerides.
A healthy diet with reduced fat and cholesterol will increase HDL levels and decrease LDL levels. Physical activity can raise HDL levels 5%. Needs to be consistent - at least 30 minutes a day for 5 days a week. Estimated every six pounds that are lost can increase HDL by one and lower LDL by one.
Between 20 and 35 percent of your total daily calories should come from fat if you have a healthy body. With 9 calories per gram of fat, this would equal between 44 and 78 grams total fat per day, based on a 2,000-calorie diet.