LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)
Definition
The 'bad' cholesterol that can build up in artery walls, forming plaque that narrows and hardens arteries, increasing heart disease risk.
Low-Density Lipoprotein carries cholesterol from the liver to cells throughout the body. When LDL levels are too high, excess cholesterol deposits in artery walls, forming plaque that narrows blood vessels and restricts blood flow, a condition called atherosclerosis.
Optimal LDL levels are below 100 mg/dL for most adults, with below 70 mg/dL recommended for those at high cardiovascular risk. LDL above 160 mg/dL is considered high and significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Lowering LDL involves dietary changes (reducing saturated and trans fats, increasing soluble fiber, eating plant sterols), regular exercise, weight management, and in some cases, medication such as statins. The portfolio diet, which combines multiple cholesterol-lowering foods, can reduce LDL by 25-35%.
Related Calculators
Related Terms
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)
healthThe 'good' cholesterol that helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Cholesterol
healthA waxy, fat-like substance found in the blood that is essential for building cells but can increase heart disease risk at elevated levels.
Saturated Fat
healthA type of dietary fat with no double bonds in its carbon chain, found primarily in animal products and some tropical oils, linked to increased LDL cholesterol.
Dietary Fiber
healthA type of carbohydrate that the body cannot fully digest, essential for digestive health, blood sugar regulation, and cholesterol management.
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