HDL? HDL cholestrol is a common misspelling of HDL cholesterol.
The body needs cholesterol to function properly. There are two main types of cholesterol: HDL ("good" cholesterol) and LDL ("bad" cholesterol). HDL is considered "good" because it removes the excess "bad" cholesterol to the liver, where it is repacked and used at a later time or simply expelled. Because HDL helps remove cholesterol from the blood, it can help keep cholesterol from building up in the walls of the arteries. This buildup can lead to a condition called atherosclerosis, which is a narrowing of the arteries that eventually causes heart disease.
(Click HDL for more information on why the body needs HDL cholesterol to function properly and some guidelines for what are considered adequate HDL levels. You can also click any of the links in the box to the right for specific information.)
HealthSavvy Sign In
|