Home » DIFFERENCE BETWEEN » 38 differences between good and bad cholesterol
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN

38 differences between good and bad cholesterol

38 differences between good and bad cholesterol

The labels “good” and “bad” cholesterol are commonly used to refer to various types of lipoproteins that carry cholesterol in the blood. The effects of these lipoproteins on cardiovascular health vary. Although the labels “good” and “bad” cholesterol are oversimplified, they do convey the broad idea of their opposing effects.

GOOD CHOLESTEROL

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is regarded as “good cholesterol.” Because of its favorable impact on cardiovascular health, HDL cholesterol is frequently seen as good. HDL cholesterol protects the body by removing excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transferring it to the liver for processing and elimination. This mechanism can reduce the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening and constriction of the arteries) and cardiovascular disease by preventing cholesterol buildup in artery walls.

HDL cholesterol functions as a scavenger, removing excess cholesterol from cells and tissues, including artery walls.HDL participates in the reverse transportation of cholesterol mechanisms. It transports cholesterol from the arteries to the liver, where it is processed and removed from the body.

HDL also possesses anti-inflammatory capabilities that can help protect blood vessels and prevent inflammation within artery walls. Higher HDL cholesterol levels have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. According to research, every 1 mg/dL rise in HDL cholesterol reduces the risk of heart disease.

BAD CHOLESTEROL

The term “bad cholesterol” most commonly refers to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is referred to as “bad” cholesterol because high levels of this cholesterol in the blood are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, specifically atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease.

LDL cholesterol is a type of lipoprotein that transports cholesterol from the liver to cells all throughout the body. Cholesterol is required for many body activities, including the formation of cell membranes and the production of hormones. However, an overabundance of LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream might cause complications.

High LDL cholesterol levels can lead to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition in which cholesterol and other chemicals build in the arteries’ walls, producing plaques. These plaques have the ability to narrow and harden the arteries, limiting blood flow and potentially leading to heart attacks or strokes.Elevated LDL cholesterol is regarded as a substantial risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The higher the LDL cholesterol level in the blood, the greater the chance of having heart disease.

Also read: Active Immunity vs Passive Immunity – 26 Key Differences

No.

Aspect

Good Cholesterol (HDL)

Bad Cholesterol (LDL)

1

Type

High-density lipoprotein

Low-density lipoprotein

2

Function

Carries cholesterol away from arteries to the liver for processing and removal

Transports cholesterol to cells, can lead to plaque buildup in arteries

3

Particle Size

Smaller particles

Larger particles

4

Density

Higher density

Lower density

5

Structure

Contains more protein

Contains more cholesterol and fats

6

Origin

Produced in the liver and intestines

Produced in the liver

7

Transport Direction

Transports cholesterol away from arteries

Transports cholesterol to arteries

8

Atherosclerosis Risk

Lowers risk of atherosclerosis (artery hardening) and heart disease

Increases risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease

9

Health Benefits

Cardiovascular protection

Cardiovascular risk

10

Effect on Arteries

Helps keep arteries clear of plaque buildup

Can contribute to plaque accumulation

11

Circulation Enhancement

Enhances blood circulation

May hinder blood circulation

12

Relation to Heart Disease

High levels associated with lower heart disease risk

High levels associated with higher heart disease risk

13

Cardiovascular Protection

Helps protect against heart attacks and strokes

Increases risk of heart attacks and strokes

14

Triglyceride Impact

May lower triglyceride levels

Can increase triglyceride levels

15

Liver Processing

HDL transports cholesterol to the liver

LDL delivers cholesterol to body tissues

16

Cholesterol Removal

Aids in removing excess cholesterol from the bloodstream

Can contribute to cholesterol buildup in arteries

17

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

May have anti-inflammatory effects

May contribute to inflammation

18

Lifestyle Influence

Can be influenced by exercise and healthy diet

Can be influenced by diet and lifestyle

19

Dietary Factors

Healthy fats (unsaturated fats) can increase HDL levels

Saturated and trans fats can increase LDL levels

20

Risk Factors

High HDL levels are generally beneficial

High LDL levels are associated with risk factors

21

Hormone Production

Precursor for steroid hormone production

Not directly involved in hormone production

22

Role in Cell Membranes

Participates in cell membrane structure and fluidity

Not a major component of cell membranes

23

Relation to Plaque

Associated with reduced plaque formation

Associated with plaque buildup in arteries

24

Reverse Cholesterol Transport

Facilitates reverse cholesterol transport

Does not play a significant role in this process

25

Estrogen Effect

May be influenced by estrogen

Estrogen may increase LDL cholesterol levels

26

Lab Measurement

Higher HDL levels are desired

Lower LDL levels are desired

27

Nutritional Influence

Diet rich in monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids can increase HDL

Diet high in saturated and trans fats can increase LDL

28

Excretion Mechanism

Excreted from the body through the liver

Not a primary mechanism of excretion

29

Statins Effect

Statins may have limited effect on HDL levels

Statins can lower LDL cholesterol levels

30

Risk Assessment

High HDL levels often considered protective

High LDL levels often considered a risk factor

31

Insulin Resistance

May be associated with improved insulin sensitivity

May be associated with insulin resistance

32

Heart Disease Prevention

May help reduce risk of heart disease

May increase risk of heart disease

33

Medical Interventions

Increasing HDL is often a goal in managing heart health

Lowering LDL is often a goal in managing heart health

34

Clinical Focus

HDL levels are assessed for heart health

LDL levels are assessed for heart health

35

Cholesterol Efflux

Promotes cholesterol efflux from cells

Can contribute to cholesterol accumulation in cells

36

Genetic Influence

Genetic factors can influence HDL levels

Genetic factors can influence LDL levels

37

Vascular Health

Associated with improved vascular health

Associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis

38

Preventive Measures

Focus on increasing HDL through lifestyle choices

Focus on managing LDL through lifestyle choices

Also read: Innate Immunity vs Adaptive Immunity- 35 Differences

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the advantages of having a high HDL cholesterol level?

High HDL cholesterol levels are linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, and strokes. 

What is the ideal level of HDL cholesterol?

An HDL cholesterol level of 60 mg/dL or above is generally considered optimum. When evaluating HDL levels, it is crucial to consider total cardiovascular risk factors.

What role does LDL cholesterol have in cardiovascular health?

LDL cholesterol transports cholesterol from the liver to cells all over the body. Excess LDL cholesterol can cause plaque to form in arterial walls, raising the risk of artery blockages and cardiovascular events.What role does LDL cholesterol 

Can I lower my cholesterol levels solely with food and exercise?

Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, frequent exercise, and weight management can have a good effect on cholesterol levels in many circumstances. Genetics and other factors, however, can also play a role.

How frequently should I have my cholesterol levels checked?

As part of your preventive healthcare regimen, it is recommended that you have your cholesterol levels examined on a regular basis. Individual risk factors and medical history may influence the frequency.

What if my cholesterol levels are higher than the prescribed level?

Consult a healthcare expert if your cholesterol readings are above the suggested amount. They can offer advice and make appropriate lifestyle recommendations.

Sending
User Review
5 (1 vote)

Related Articles

Communicable vs Non-communicable Diseases-  24 Differences

Laboratory Hub Team

Humoral vs Cell-mediated Immunity- 27 Differences

Laboratory Hub Team

Agglutination vs Precipitation- 20 Differences

Laboratory Hub Team

Meningitis vs Encephalitis- 20 Differences

Laboratory Hub Team

Acute disease vs Chronic disease – 15 Differences

Laboratory Hub Team

29 Difference Between Fats and Oils

Laboratory Hub Team

Leave a Comment

* By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this. Accept Read More