What Is HDL Cholesterol?
High density lipoprotein (HDL) is one of the five main categories of lipoproteins. A lipoprotein is a complex particle consisting of several proteins that function to transport lipids (fat molecules) around the body. This can occur in blood plasma, water, or other fluids that are outside cells.
Lipoproteins are divided into five main groups based on their density or size, function, and incidence of cardiovascular issues. HDL particles have been found to remove fat molecules from cells. Researchers have also observed that a higher concentration of HDL cholesterol is strongly associated with decreased atherosclerosis (narrowing of the artery due to plaque buildup) in the arterial walls. This is crucial as it lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, plaque ruptures, and other vascular diseases. This is also why HDL cholesterol is often referred to as the “good cholesterol.”
