Technically speaking, LDL refers to low-density lipoprotein, a type of protein produced by the liver that carries cholesterol through the blood.

Put more simply, LDL is the “bad boy” of cholesterol.  

While LDL does have its redeeming features (namely, it carries antioxidants and amino acids to other cells), it is considered harmful because too much LDL puts you at risk for a number of potentially fatal health conditions. Because the risks of high LDL levels far outweigh the benefits, the focus is necessarily on lowering levels of LDL.  

LDL Cholesterol and Your Health 

When too much LDL circulates through the bloodstream, LDL can build up with other substances along the arterial walls, forming plaque that leads to a condition called atherosclerosis. This serious health condition is a precursor to heart attack.  

High LDL levels can lead to a number of other life-threatening conditions as well, including blockage of other main arteries, stroke, and blood clots. Blood clots can travel to the lungs or brain causing thrombosis, an often fatal complication.  

The Big Cholesterol Picture 

LDL levels are considered “good” when they are low. Recommended levels can vary depending on age and other health factors, but in general LDL levels are considered within the recommended range when they are less than 100 mg/dl.  

However, to get a “big picture” view of your cholesterol levels and risk for disease, it’s necessary to look at both LDL and HDL levels. While it is a positive sign to have low LDL levels, there are other things that factor into your overall cholesterol health.  

Having low levels of HDL, commonly called “good cholesterol”, is considered almost as dangerous as having high levels of LDL, because HDL helps remove excess fat from the body by binding with it in the bloodstream and carrying it to the liver for disposal. Having low levels of HDL means that your body can’t remove excess fat from the blood as efficiently, and this can lead to the same kind of artery-clogging problems that go along with high LDL levels.  

By the same token, having high levels of triglycerides together with high LDL levels puts you at a greater increase for heart disease than if you had raised LDL levels alone.  

If you’re confused, you’re not alone!  

These competing factors can make it difficult to understand your level of risk. This is why getting a wide view on your cholesterol health through testing and consultation with your physician is your best bet!  

The Good News 

The good news is that even if you have high levels of LDL, there are a number of simple things you can do to lower your levels. 

The right diet and moderate physical activity can go a long way to lowering your cholesterol levels. There are quite a few cholesterol medications on the market today that can also help you lower your LDL levels should your doctor deem it necessary. 

In fact, it’s never been easier to get a handle on your LDL levels – and to start making a change for the better today.