Why HDL Is Called the Good Cholesterol?

General
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Even though cholestrol is notorious, HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) enjoys a special reputation in health!

Why is HDL called a “reverse transporter”?
LDL and VLDL transports the cholestrol from intestine and liver into peripheral tissues and result in plaque formation that obstructds the normal blood flow. Whereas HDL removes excess cholesterol from peripheral tissues and plaques and transports it back to the liver for excretion in bile. This process is known as reverse cholesterol transport, making HDL friendly lipid.

Why is HDL called “good cholesterol”?

  • Prevents plaque formation
  • Reduces risk of coronary artery disease
  • Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects

Normal HDL Levels

  • Men: ≥ 40 mg/dL
  • Women: ≥ 50 mg/dL

:warning: When is HDL considered low?

  • < 40 mg/dL in men
  • < 50 mg/dL in women
    Low HDL is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

:chart_increasing: How to Increase HDL Levels
:check_mark: Regular aerobic exercise
:check_mark: Weight reduction
:check_mark: Smoking cessation
:check_mark: Healthy fats (olive oil, nuts, fatty fish)
:check_mark: Control of diabetes

MBH/AB

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The misconception that fats are bad for you is slowly going away.

Due to social media, doctors, and fitness influencers promoting that not all fats are bad, there are good fats (HDL) that are necessary for survival, hormone production, cholesterol transport, as mentioned in this post and many other advantages of HDL.

Thank you for explaining the information in concise and simple words.

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Very informative post!! HDL, often called “good cholesterol,” is essential for heart health as it removes excess cholesterol from arteries and delivers it to the liver for elimination. Misconceptions about HDL can spark needless anxiety or poor decisions, such as shunning all fats entirely. Fixating solely on LDL overlooks HDL’s protective benefits, allowing artery plaque buildup and long-term cardiovascular problems to worsen.

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It is important that people understand that some fats are indeed beneficial for our body especially brain health.

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Cholesterol is essential in building and maintaining cell membrane, producing hormones,Vit-D,bile acid etc and also supports brain and nerve function.But maintaining a balance between LDL And HDL is crucial for a healthy heart and body.

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