Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by the liver and found in some foods. It is needed for digestion and making hormones and vitamin D. Imbalanced cholesterol levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues. Cholesterol exists as HDL ("good" cholesterol) and LDL ("bad" cholesterol). High LDL levels can clog arteries, while high HDL levels transport cholesterol from arteries. Lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, smoking, and stress influence cholesterol levels. Maintaining balanced HDL and LDL through healthy habits reduces heart disease risks.

2. • Cholesterol is found in all cells throughout
the body. The compound is produced by the
liver, and it's also found in certain foods,
such as meat and dairy products.
• Cholesterol is needed to support digestion
as well as making hormones and vitamin D.
• Imbalanced levels can raise the risk of
certain health issues, especially
cardiovascular conditions.
• In understanding cholesterol, it's important
to differentiate between HDL and LDL,
which are two lipoproteins.

3. High-Density
Lipoprotein (HDL)
• Known as "good" cholesterol
• Transports cholesterol to the liver to
be removed from the body
• Less likely to settle in and clog the
arteries
Low-Density
Lipoprotein (LDL)
• Known as “bad” cholesterol
• Transports cholesterol to the
arteries, where it can collect in the
walls
• Cholesterol buildup in the arteries
can lead to atherosclerosis (buildup
of plaque) and blood clots

4. • Lifestyle choices play a huge role in
lowered HDL levels.
• Common factors include genetics, excess
weight, poor diet, smoking, and a
sedentary lifestyle.
• Uncontrolled diabetes can also cause low
levels of good cholesterol.

5. • High LDL levels are typically caused by poor
lifestyle choices.
• Bad cholesterol is widely influenced by
genetics and diet. Diets high in saturated fats,
such as meat, poultry, and dairy, increase LDL.
• High levels of LDL can cause a variety of
symptoms, including:
o Extreme fatigue
o Chest pain (angina)
o Nausea
o Shortness of breath
o Numb or cold extremities

6. • Low levels of HDL are connected to all
sorts of health risks including:
o Heart disease
o Cardiovascular disease
o Peripheral vascular disease
o Stroke
o Diabetes
• Having low HDL levels means high LDL
levels, which increases the risk of
plaque buildup throughout the
arteries.

7. • You can greatly minimize the risks by:
o Eating foods that are high in fiber and low in
saturated fats
o Maintaining a healthy weight
o Staying physically active
o Quitting smoking
o Managing stress
• By maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, you greatly
reduce the risk of heart disease and other heart
issues, as well as diabetes.

8. • Balanced HDL and LDL levels is important for
heart and total health. You want higher HDL
levels and lower LDL levels.
• High levels of “bad” cholesterol greatly
increases the risk of poor cardiovascular
health.
• Cholesterol levels can be rebalanced by
making healthy lifestyle choices, such as
exercising on a routine basis and eating a
healthy diet. Quitting smoking can also
minimize risks and symptoms.
• Have your cholesterol levels checked by your
doctor to ensure your HDL and LDL are in a
healthy range.

9. • Crystal Run Healthcare offers various
cardiology services to protect you from
the severe consequences of heart disease.
• We specialize in preventative care and
early diagnosis, thanks to a team of skilled
cardiologists, all of whom are board
certified.
• We're the only regional practice to offer
state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic
services, including cardiac
electrophysiology, and immediate access
to a state-of-the-art catheterization lab.
• You can easily book an appointment with
many Crystal Run Healthcare physicians
through the website or contact us if you
need additional assistance.

10. 1. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-causes-low-hdl-cholesterol-levels-698078
2. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/low-levels-of-hdl-the-good-cholesterol-appear-
connected-to-many-health-risks-not-just-heart-disease-2016110210626
3. https://medlineplus.gov/medlineplus-videos/cholesterol-good-and-bad/
4. https://www.healthline.com/health/hdl-vs-ldl-cholesterol
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/symptoms-
causes/syc-20350800