In the past, we were told that too much cholesterol was a bad thing. More recently, we have learned that there’s such a thing as good cholesterol. So now it’s all about keeping good cholesterol and bad cholesterol in balance.

But what’s the difference between good and bad cholesterol? And how can you ensure that both are under control? This article will provide you with the information you need.

What’s the Difference Between Good and Bad Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that builds up in the arteries. The two types of cholesterol are high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or ‘good cholesterol’ and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or ‘bad cholesterol’.

HDL is good because it absorbs cholesterol and carries it to the liver removing it from the bloodstream before it can build up in the body. LDL takes cholesterol directly to the arteries. This can cause a plaque buildup that can result in a heart attack or stroke.

Triglycerides are another component found in good and bad cholesterol. They are stored as fat in the blood. They can build up in the bloodstream when you eat more calories than you burn. They also increase the risk of heart conditions.

How to Improve Your Cholesterol Levels

There are several things you can do to lower your triglycerides, reduce your LDL levels, and increase your HDL levels. These include:

Eating a Healthy Diet: Ensure your diet is optimized for the right cholesterol balance by reducing saturated fats, eliminating trans fats, eating foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, increasing soluble fiber, and adding whey protein to your routine.

Engage in Physical Activity: Physical activity is great for increasing HDL levels in the body. You can improve your cholesterol by doing moderate exercise 30 minutes a day five days a week, or by engaging in vigorous physical activity 20 minutes a day three times a week.

Quit Smoking: Quitting smoking dramatically improves your HDL cholesterol levels. Within a year of quitting, your risk of heart disease will be 50% less than that of a smoker.

Drink Alcohol in Moderation: Moderate consumption of alcohol has been linked with higher HDL levels. The benefits aren’t strong enough to recommend alcohol to anyone who doesn’t drink. But if you do drink, it’s best to keep consumption under control.

Lose Weight: Even a few extra pounds can contribute to a high cholesterol level. Getting the right amount of physical activity and following a healthy diet will help to keep your weight regulated.  

See a Doctor Regularly: Everyone should have their cholesterol levels checked regularly, especially if you are at high risk for heart disease. An LDL count of 100 or less is considered normal. HDL counts should be 40 or more for men, 50 or more for females. Your total cholesterol, including HDL, LDL, and triglycerides, should add up to no more than 200.

Cholesterol isn’t all bad. Taking the proper measures will keep LDL and triglycerides low while allowing good cholesterol to do its thing. How will you be promoting a healthy cholesterol balance in your diet?