Cholesterol is transported on LDL or HDL (high density lipoprotein); triglycerides are primarily carried on very low density lipoprotein (VLDL).
LDL are larger lighter and richer in cholesterol while HDL are smaller, denser and packaged with more protein.
This protein contains a high percentage of cholesterol relative to protein and when LDL levels in the blood are high cells lining the inside the arteries transport LDL and its cholesterol load into the artery wall.
Both LDL and HDL carry cholesterol but elevated LDL concentrations in blood are a sign of high risk of heart attack, whereas elevated HDL concentrations are usually associated with a low risk.
If the person has high levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol or triglycerides or decreased levels of HDL, he has an elevated risk of coronary heart disease (CHD).
It is known that low density lipoprotein (LDL) can be deposited in the artery wall and setting stage for atherosclerosis. Total cholesterol levels should be kept below 200 mg/dL to reduce the risk of CHD.
LDL (Low density lipoprotein) and heart disease
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