HDL vs LDL Cholesterol: What's the Difference?
If you've recently had a cholesterol test, you may have seen terms like HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol on your results.
While both play important roles in the body, they affect your heart health in different ways. That's why HDL is often called "good" cholesterol and LDL is known as "bad" cholesterol.
While both play important roles in the body, they affect your heart health in different ways. That's why HDL is often called "good" cholesterol and LDL is known as "bad" cholesterol.
The Simple Explanation
Think of cholesterol as a passenger travelling around your body.
Because cholesterol can't move through the bloodstream on its own, it needs to be carried by special proteins called lipoproteins.
The two most important types are:
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)
Often called good cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.
LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)
Often called bad cholesterol because it can contribute to cholesterol building up inside artery walls.
What Does LDL Cholesterol Do?
LDL carries cholesterol from the liver to the rest of the body.
Your body needs some LDL cholesterol, but when levels become too high, excess cholesterol can build up in the arteries. Over time, this can narrow the arteries and increase the risk of heart and circulatory diseases.
In general, lower LDL cholesterol is better for heart health.
What Does HDL Cholesterol Do?
HDL works a bit like a recycling system.
It helps collect excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it back to the liver, where it can be broken down and removed from the body.
Because of this protective role, HDL is often referred to as "good cholesterol".
In general, higher HDL cholesterol levels are considered beneficial.
HDL vs LDL: At a Glance
| HDL ("Good") Cholesterol | LDL ("Bad") Cholesterol |
| Removes excess cholesterol from the bloodstream | Carries cholesterol around the body |
| Helps transport cholesterol back to the liver | Can contribute to cholesterol build-up in arteries |
| Higher levels are generally desirable | Lower levels are generally desirable |
| Supports heart health | High levels can increase cardiovascular risk |
What Should My Cholesterol Levels Be?
Your healthcare professional will interpret your results based on your age, medical history and overall cardiovascular risk.
As a general guide:
Total Cholesterol
- Below 5 mmol/L for healthy adults
- Below 4 mmol/L for people at higher cardiovascular risk
LDL Cholesterol
- Below 3 mmol/L for most healthy adults
- Below 2 mmol/L for people at higher cardiovascular risk
HDL Cholesterol
- Above 1 mmol/L
Your doctor may also discuss your non-HDL cholesterol result, which is increasingly used as a measure of cholesterol that can contribute to artery build-up.
My Cholesterol Is High. What Should I Do?
If your cholesterol is higher than recommended, don't panic. Cholesterol levels can often be improved through a combination of lifestyle changes and, where appropriate, medication.
Focus on Heart-Healthy Eating
Try to:
- Eat more fruit and vegetables
- Choose wholegrains and high-fibre foods
- Include oats, barley, beans and pulses
- Swap foods high in saturated fat for healthier alternatives
- Choose unsaturated fats such as olive oil, rapeseed oil, nuts and seeds
Consider Foods with Plant Sterols
Plant sterols have been shown to lower blood cholesterol when consumed regularly as part of a healthy diet.
Foods containing added plant sterols, such as ProActiv® spreads, can help lower cholesterol as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Stay Active
Regular physical activity supports heart health and can help maintain a healthy weight.
Don't Smoke
Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for your heart and overall health.
The Bottom Line
The easiest way to remember the difference is:
- HDL helps take cholesterol away from your arteries.
- LDL can leave cholesterol behind in your arteries.
That's why healthcare professionals generally aim for higher HDL and lower LDL levels.
If you've recently had a cholesterol test and aren't sure what your results mean, speak to your GP, pharmacist or healthcare professional for personalised advice.
Want practical ways to support healthy cholesterol levels? Download our free Cholesterol Lowering Starter Kit for simple food swaps, recipes and everyday tips.
