What is LDL cholesterol in the blood?

The article was professionally consulted by Doctor of Department of Examination and Internal Medicine, Vinmec Phu Quoc International General Hospital.

In the results of biochemical tests, in addition to the total cholesterol index, there are also other indicators such as LDL, HDL. So what are they, and what does the LDL number mean?

In the results of biochemical blood tests, the indicators related to cholesterol include:
Total cholesterol : the normal value is < 200 mg/dL. LDL (low density lipoprotein cholesterol): low density lipoprotein cholesterol, the optimal value is less than 100 mg/dL. HDL (high density lipoprotein cholesterol): high density lipoprotein cholesterol, the optimal value is > 60 mg/dL. Cholesterol is not entirely harmful. It is an essential fat that the cells in our body need. Cholesterol can be made in the liver, or obtained from food. Cholesterol is transported in the blood by a transport medium, which is lipoprotein. As we have seen the appearance of two indicators, LDL and HDL, in which HDL is considered "good cholesterol", and LDL is "bad cholesterol".
LDL is the "bad cholesterol" because it causes atherosclerosis, which can lead to life-threatening conditions such as heart attack or stroke.
=>> How to distinguish between LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol

LDL is “bad cholesterol”, so the lower the value of LDL on the blood chemistry test results, the better.
In healthy adults, the optimal value of LDL should be < 100 mg/dL, but 100 - 129 mg/dL is still normal (especially in cases of people with pre-existing cardiovascular disease or having cardiovascular disease). Cardiovascular risk factors should be kept below 100 mg/dL). If a result between 130 - 159 mg/dL is in the upper limit, 160 - 189 mg/dL is in the high range, and 190 mg/dL or higher is very high. In children, normal values ​​are lower than in adults. LDL should be kept at <110 mg/dL, the upper limit is 110 - 129 mg/dL, and 130 mg/dL or more is high.

Achieving and maintaining optimal LDL values ​​is not easy, it requires perseverance in following a healthy lifestyle, healthy diet and proper exercise. Cholesterol increases with age, so the earlier you start living a healthy life, the better the results. Specific tips include:
Eat foods that are low in saturated fat, low in cholesterol, and low in sugar. Eat lots of fiber. Regular and reasonable exercise regimen. If you have an LDL level that is above the limit, the patient has a history of cardiovascular disease or risk factors, please see a specialist for timely examination, advice and treatment.