Just like ‘good cop’ and ‘bad cop’, cholesterol too has two versions or avatars. These are LDL aka ‘bad cholesterol’ and HDL aka ‘good cholesterol’. What exactly are these, why are they important for ...

Understanding the Context

You have had the cholesterol conversation with your doctor enough times that the numbers feel familiar. LDL, HDL, triglycerides. Good and bad. High and low.

Key Insights

The ... High-density lipoprotein (HDL), which has been referred to as “good cholesterol” by medical experts, is being re-examined after a new study questioned the benefits of this cholesterol type across ... Boosting HDL or "good" cholesterol was thought to reduce heart risk. However, recent research suggests that very high levels can have the opposite effect. Total cholesterol.

Final Thoughts

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Triglycerides. In general, you can't have food or liquids other than water for around 9 to 12 hours before the test. This is called fasting. Some cholesterol tests don't require fasting, so follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Interpreting the numbers In the United States ... High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is known as the "good" cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream. A higher level of HDL cholesterol is linked to a lower risk of heart disease. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that's in every cell in the body.