Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is often referred to as the “bad” cholesterol. To understand LDL, you first need to understand cholesterol itself. Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that your body actually needs to build cells and support metabolism. However, the way cholesterol travels through your bloodstream is what determines whether it is helpful or harmful.
There are two main types of lipoproteins that carry cholesterol: High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL). While HDL helps remove cholesterol from your bloodstream, LDL tends to deposit it into the walls of your arteries. That is where problems can start.
Why is Low-Density Lipoprotein Called “Bad” Cholesterol?
The term “bad cholesterol” is based on how LDL behaves in your body. When there is too much LDL in your blood, it begins to stick to the inner walls of your arteries. Over time, this build-up forms plaque. Plaque is basically a hard and thick substance that narrows the arteries. This condition is called atherosclerosis, and it raises the risk of heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
Atherosclerosis does not happen overnight. It is a slow and silent process that builds up over many years. Many people do not feel any different until there’s a major problem, like a heart attack.
What Causes High LDL Levels?
Your LDL levels can be influenced by several factors. Some of these you can control, and some you cannot. This is where lifestyle and even certain medications can help.
Factors that you can control:
- Diet: Eating foods high in saturated fats (like red meat, cheese, butter) and trans fats (often found in packaged snacks) can raise your LDL.
- Lack of exercise: Physical inactivity contributes to weight gain and poor cholesterol balance.
- Smoking: This damages blood vessels. As a result, LDL sticks more easily and forms plaque.
- Obesity or excess weight: When fat is especially concentrated around your waist, the chances of LDL levels rising are high.
Factors that you cannot control:
- Genetics: Familial hypercholesterolemia is an inherited condition where your body has trouble removing LDL.
- Age and sex: LDL levels often rise with age. After menopause, women tend to see an increase.
- Underlying conditions: Diseases like hypothyroidism or kidney issues can raise LDL levels.
If you are concerned about cholesterol because of your health history, our primary care team can help you stay ahead with regular screenings and lifestyle guidance.
How Is LDL Measured in a Cholesterol Test?
When your doctor orders a lipid profile test, they are looking at several things: total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides.
LDL is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood. Here is a general breakdown:
- Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL
- Near optimal: 100–129 mg/dL
- Borderline high: 130–159 mg/dL
- High: 160–189 mg/dL
- Very high: 190 mg/dL or more
These numbers might mean different things depending on your overall health, age, and risk factors. For example, if you have diabetes or a history of heart disease, your doctor might aim for a lower LDL target than average.
What Are the Signs That You Might Have High LDL Cholesterol (Even If You Feel Fine)?
The tricky part is that high LDL does not come with obvious symptoms. You can’t “feel” cholesterol building up in your arteries. That is why regular screenings are important. People with risk factors like high blood pressure, smoking, or a family history of heart problems are at a higher risk.
In rare cases, especially with very high LDL levels, physical signs may include:
- Xanthomas: Fatty deposits that form under the skin, usually around the eyes, elbows, or knees.
- Corneal arcus: A grayish-white ring around the cornea. This is more common in older adults.
For most people, though, the first sign of high LDL might be something as serious as chest pain or a cardiovascular event. That is why prevention and early detection are key.
How to Lower LDL (and Protect Your Heart)?
Lowering LDL requires combining smart lifestyle changes with medical support when needed. Here is a simple guide:
- Eat smarter: Your diet should include foods for high cholesterol management. Focus on high-fiber foods like oats, beans, fruits, and vegetables. Swap butter with olive oil. Choose lean proteins like fish or skinless chicken.
- Exercise regularly: Even brisk walking for 30 minutes a day can make a big difference.
- Quit smoking: If you quit smoking, it will immediately improve your HDL levels and artery health.
- Lose excess weight: Just a 5 to 10% weight loss can lower LDL significantly. If you are not able to lose weight, you can consider medical weight loss.
- Take medications if prescribed: Statins are the most common cholesterol-lowering drugs. However, always consult an expert before taking any medicine.
Is There A Link Between Cholesterol and Mental Health?
While most people associate cholesterol strictly with heart health, recent studies suggest LDL levels might also have neurological implications.
Cholesterol is essential for brain function. It is involved in forming synapses, insulating nerve fibers, and supporting hormone production. Extremely low LDL, especially due to aggressive treatment, has been loosely linked with increased risk of mood disturbances in some people.
While more research is needed, this highlights the importance of balanced LDL levels. Going too low may not always be ideal for every patient. Our psychiatry care team considers these broader implications when helping patients manage both cardiovascular and emotional well-being.
Want to Book a Lipid Profile Test to Know Your Cholesterol Levels?
LDL cholesterol is a silent but powerful factor in your long-term health. Since you will not feel it rising, you have to take steps to understand and control it. If you notice any of the symptoms of high cholesterol levels, it is best that you consult an expert first. We, at Renew Health Center, will recommend a lipid profile test if needed. If your LDL levels are high, we will start with your high cholesterol management treatment immediately. Call 210-761-9001 for our San Antonio clinic or 830-346-9001 for our Seguin clinic. Additionally, you can book an appointment online.
Disclaimer: The information provided in our blogs is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional at Renew Health Center.
Medically Reviewed by Lydia Giron
Family Nurse Practitioner
MSN, APRN, FNP-C
