HDL vs LDL vs Triglycerides: Simple Ways to Manage Cholesterol Naturally For Healthy Heart

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Know the difference between HDL, LDL, and triglycerides, and learn simple, natural ways to manage cholesterol for a healthier heart and longer life.

When it comes to heart health, there’s one word that we hear again and again: cholesterol.But did you know that cholesterol isn’t a one-size-fits-all type of substance, but that cholesterol actually comes in different forms and plays a very different role in your body?The three that you need to know about are HDL (high-density lipoprotein), LDL (low-density lipoprotein), and triglycerides.

According to the World Health Organisation, high cholesterol is responsible for roughly 2.6 million deaths each year. Diet is one of the factors that can cause an increase in cholesterol levels. So, understanding the difference between the three and how to manage them is important to prevent cardiovascular diseases and potential heart problems.

Cholesterol And Its Types

1. HDL (Good Cholesterol)

High-density lipoprotein (HDL), commonly known as good cholesterol, plays a vital role in maintaining heart health. It works by removing excess cholesterol from the arteries and transporting it to the liver, where it can be broken down or flushed out of the body. Higher levels of HDL are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic conditions, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant functions. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), men should maintain a minimum HDL level of 40 mg/dL, and women should aim for at least 50 mg/dL.

Ways To Manage HDL

• Use extra virgin olive oil
• Consider a low-carb or keto diet
• Keep your body moving
• Add coconut oil sparingly
• Quit smoking for healthy cholesterol levels
• Reduce excess weight

2. LDL (Bad Cholesterol)

LDL cholesterol, often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, can accumulate in your arteries, leading to plaque buildup. This plaque can narrow your arteries, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke. In this article, we tell you the top 5 superfoods that can help lower cholesterol levels naturally and protect your heart from stroke and heart attack.

Ways To Manage LDL

3. Triglycerides

High TG levels are bad for the heart because they lead to the accumulation of plaque deposits in the arterial walls (atherosclerosis), which puts individuals at higher risk of heart attacks and stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.Excess triglycerides also cause inflammation and insulin resistance, which both put a burden on the heart and negatively alter vascular function over time.

Ways To Manage Triglycerides

• Limit alcohol intake
• Add omega-3s to your diet
• Cut back on added sugars and refined carbs
• Eat more healthy fats
• Lose excess weight
• Increase physical activity
• Watch portion sizes and total calorie intake

Regular physical activity, weight control, heart-healthy eating (including the Mediterranean diet), and avoidance of tobacco aren’t identified as treatments for just HDL; they’re effective for LDL and triglycerides as well.