High-Density Lipoproteins (HDLs) have long been thought to be "good cholesterol," beneficial to the entire body and cardiovascular health. However, because HDLs are complex particles that undergo dynamic remodeling because of interactions with various enzymes and tissues throughout their life cycle, a complete understanding of their functions and roles is more complicated than initially expected. HDL's primary purpose is to recycle excess cholesterol and transfer it to the liver and steroidogenic tissues. For cholesterol delivery, it also interacts with ATP-dependent transmembrane transporter proteins produced at high levels in macrophages, adipose tissue, the stomach, and the liver.
HDL's varied protein and lipid make up aid in its atheroprotective activity. HDL transcytosis via endothelial cells into the sub-endothelial region in the artery wall, where it can efflux cholesterol from foam cells (cholesterol-loaded macrophages), avoiding plaque formation. A good HDL cholesterol level can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. Because HDL eliminates bad cholesterol, it may help to keep plaque from developing in blood arteries. HDL can improve your health and help you avoid complications like a stroke or heart attack. One of the most important aspects you can manage is your nutrition. You should prioritize meals that boost good cholesterol and reduce bad cholesterol. Consume more of the following foods and ingredients: healthy unsaturated fats, avocado oil, nuts, legumes, oatmeal beans, fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish, and whole grains.
Finally, doing some physical movement in your daily routine can help tremendously. It not only benefits your cardiovascular system, but it also improves your mood and helps you maintain a healthy weight.
ZS DMO II Karla P. Calapardo, RND
References:
https://blogs.cornell.edu/ccesuffolkfhw/2017/01/23/understanding-cholesterol//
https://www.verywellhealth.com/hdl-cholesterol-5188651
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcvm.2020.00039/full/
