Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol makes up most of the cholesterol in a person’s body. When a person has too much LDL cholesterol, it can build up in the walls of blood vessels, creating plaque. Show
Because LDL cholesterolmay narrow blood vesselsover time and elevate the risk of heart disease, people sometimes refer to it as “bad cholesterol.” HDL cholesterol, on the other hand, takes cholesterol to the liver for removal, rather than allowing it to accumulate in the blood vessels. As a result, people call it “good cholesterol.” This article will discuss LDL cholesterol, including possible causes, factors that may increase levels, symptoms of high cholesterol, risks and possible complications, and treatment. What causes high LDL cholesterol levels?Share on PinterestGetty Images There are manycauses of high LDL cholesterol, with some being more treatable than others. GenesHigh levels of LDL cholesterol could lead to conditions such as heart attack, stroke, and angina. If someone is concerned about their cholesterol levels, they should get in touch with their doctor. LDL is the “bad cholesterol” because too much of it in your blood can contribute to plaque buildup in your arteries. Foods with high amounts of saturated fat (like full-fat dairy and red meat) can raise your LDL. A heart-healthy diet, exercise and quitting tobacco use can help lower your LDL. For most people, a normal LDL level is below 100 mg/dL.
What is LDL?LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein. It’s a type of lipoprotein found in your blood. Lipoproteins are particles made of lipids (fats) and proteins that carry fats through your bloodstream. Fats, because of their structure, can’t move through your blood on their own. So, lipoproteins serve as vehicles that carry fats to various cells in your body. LDL particles contain a large amount of cholesterol and a smaller amount of proteins. What is LDL cholesterol?Most people use “LDL” and “LDL cholesterol” interchangeably. LDL cholesterol has a reputation for being the “bad cholesterol.” But that’s only part of the story. LDL cholesterol itself isn’t bad. That’s because cholesterol performs important functions in your body. However, when you have too much LDL cholesterol, that’s when you can run into problems. Excess LDL cholesterol contributes to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) in your arteries. This plaque buildup may lead to:
This is why healthcare providers encourage you to have a healthy level of LDL cholesterol. What is the LDL cholesterol normal range?Most adults should keep their LDL below 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). If you have a history of atherosclerosis, your LDL should be below 70 mg/dL. What is a bad level for LDL? An LDL level above 100 mg/dL raises your risk of cardiovascular disease. Healthcare providers use the following categories to describe your LDL cholesterol level:
Healthcare providers check your cholesterol levels through a simple blood test called a lipid panel. When you receive your results, it’s important to talk to your provider about what your cholesterol numbers mean. These include both your LDL and your HDL cholesterol. HDL is the “good cholesterol” that helps remove extra cholesterol from your blood. Generally, healthcare providers encourage higher HDL cholesterol levels (ideally above 60) and lower LDL cholesterol levels to reduce your cardiovascular disease risk. If your LDL is too high and your HDL is too low, your provider may recommend lifestyle changes and/or medications to get your cholesterol numbers into the healthy range. What causes high LDL cholesterol?Many factors can raise your LDL level. The factors you have some control over include:
Factors you can’t control include:
What foods cause high LDL cholesterol? Foods that contain high amounts of saturated fat are the biggest culprits in raising your LDL cholesterol. Such foods include:
Limiting your intake of saturated fat can help you manage your LDL cholesterol. How do I lower my LDL cholesterol?There’s a lot you can do to lower your LDL cholesterol. For many people, starting with lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Here are some changes you can make:
Your healthcare provider may also prescribe medication to lower your LDL cholesterol. Foods that can lower your LDL cholesterolResearch shows that soluble fiber can lower your LDL cholesterol. This form of fiber (roughage) blocks absorption of cholesterol in your body. You should aim to consume 10 to 25 grams (g) per day. Talk to your healthcare provider or a dietitian about the amount that’s right for you. The chart below lists some foods that you can add to your diet to increase your soluble fiber intake. FoodServing sizeSoluble fiber contentBlack beans3/4 cup5.4 gLima beans3/4 cup5.3 gNavy beans3/4 cup3.3 gPinto beans3/4 cup3.2 gKidney beans3/4 cup2.6 - 3.0 gTofu3/4 cup2.8 gAvocado1/2 fruit2.1 gChickpeas3/4 cup2.1 gBrussels sprouts1/2 cup2 gSweet potato1/2 cup1.8 gTurnips1/2 cup1.7 gAsparagus1/2 cup1.7 gBroccoli1/2 cup1.2 - 1.5 gOatmeal (cooked)3/4 cup1.4 gEggplant1/2 cup1.3 gCarrots1/2 cup1.1 - 1.2 gApple1 medium1.0 gBeets1/2 cup.8 gBanana1 medium.7 gBrown rice1/2 cup.5 gTalking to a dietitian can help you learn new and creative ways to incorporate these foods into your daily meals. A note from Cleveland Clinic You need some cholesterol for your body to function properly. However, too much LDL (“bad”) cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries and cause complications down the road. That’s why it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to keep your LDL levels in the normal range. For many people, lifestyle changes can make a big difference. But if you make changes and your LDL is still high, you might feel frustrated or confused. Try not to blame yourself or feel disheartened. Many factors that affect your LDL (like age and heredity) are out of your control. Talk to your provider about the changes you’re making, and learn if medication is the right fit for you. Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 10/27/2022. References
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Soluble fiber is also found in such foods as kidney beans, Brussels sprouts, apples and pears. Soluble fiber can reduce the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream. Five to 10 grams or more of soluble fiber a day decreases your LDL cholesterol.
What foods make LDL go down?Add these foods to lower LDL cholesterol. Oats. ... . Barley and other whole grains. ... . Beans. ... . Eggplant and okra. ... . Nuts. ... . Vegetable oils. ... . Apples, grapes, strawberries, citrus fruits. ... . Foods fortified with sterols and stanols.. How long does it take for LDL to decrease?Tisch Center for Women's Health at the NYU Langone Medical Center, says it can take between three to six months to see lower LDL numbers through just diet and exercise, noting that it takes longer to see changes in women than men. Read on for more information on how to lower your LDL levels.
What foods should you avoid if your LDL is high?Red meat, fried foods, and baked goods are notorious for raising levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the sticky kind that builds up in artery walls.
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