by 
The Curious Bag
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Cholesterol numbers can be confusing and overwhelming. But when you know more about LDL cholesterol and how it impacts your body you can take the right steps to ensure you always maintain good health.
Identification
LDL stands for low density lipoprotein. This cholesterol builds up on the walls of arteries and becomes a hard plaque substance that impedes the flow of blood to the heart and brain.
Types
LDL is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, and HDL, or high density lipoprotein, is the good cholesterol that helps flush bad cholesterol away from the arteries, back to the liver and out of the body. Total cholesterol is a measure of LDL, HDL and triglyceride (fat) levels.
Ranges
Keeping your LDL number below 100 mg/dL reduces your risk of health problems, while a number above 130 is cause for alarm, especially if you have a family history of high cholesterol.
Significance
Elevated LDL numbers are strong predictors of future atherosclerosis, a hardening and narrowing of artery walls. If left unchecked it can lead to stroke, cardiac disease and even death.
Prevention/Solution
Smoking, being overweight and not exercising are all factors that increase your LDL cholesterol. Another factor is diet. Eat less meat (and animal by-products) and fewer trans fats (fried foods) and consume more fiber-rich foods to decrease your LDL.
Source:
American Heart Association: What Your Cholesterol Levels Mean
Mayoclinic.com: High Blood Cholesterol---LDL Cholesterol Calculator
National Cholesterol Education Program: High Blood Cholesterol---What You Need to Know
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