Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs to build cells and produce hormones. However, not all cholesterol is the same. Understanding the difference between good and bad cholesterol is essential for protecting your heart. ✅ HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) – The 'Good' Cholesterol HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from your blood vessels and carries it back to the liver, where it is eliminated from the body. Benefits of High HDL: Protects against heart attacks and strokes Reduces plaque buildup in arteries Supports overall cardiovascular health Ways to Increase HDL: Exercise regularly (at least 150 minutes/week) Eat healthy fats (nuts, olive oil, seeds, fatty fish) Maintain a healthy weight Avoid smoking Limit processed foods ⚠️ LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) – The 'Bad' Cholesterol LDL carries cholesterol to different parts of the body. When LDL levels become too high, cholesterol accumulates inside artery walls, forming plaques that narrow blood vessels. High LDL Can Lead To: Heart attack Stroke Peripheral artery disease High cardiovascular risk Ways to Lower LDL: Reduce saturated and trans fats Increase fiber-rich foods (oats, fruits, vegetables, legumes) Exercise regularly Control diabetes and blood pressure Take cholesterol-lowering medication if prescribed 🩺 Know Your Lipid Profile A simple blood test measures: Total Cholesterol LDL (Bad Cholesterol) HDL (Good Cholesterol) Triglycerides Ideal Levels (General Adults): Total Cholesterol: <200 mg/dL LDL: <100 mg/dL (or lower for high-risk individuals) HDL: >40 mg/dL (men), >50 mg/dL (women) Triglycerides: <150 mg/dL ❤️ Remember: Higher HDL + Lower LDL = Healthier Heart High cholesterol often has no symptoms until it causes serious complications. Regular screening and healthy lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease. Prevent Today – Protect Tomorrow! Atharvasiddhi Polyclinic Dr. Kiran Satpute Cholesterol Clinic Nashik Preventive Heart & Lifestyle Disease Physician Preventive Cardiology Clinic Nashik Lifestyle Disease Clinic Nashik Lipid Profile Test Nashik General physician