LDL, HDL, Triglycerides... Your Blood Lipid Panel, Explained Once and for All

Four main numbers on a lipid panel:

Total Cholesterol — doesn't tell you much alone. The breakdown matters.

LDL ("bad") — carries cholesterol to cells. Too much deposits in artery walls. You want this LOW. Under 3.4 mmol/L is good, under 2.6 is better.

HDL ("good") — cleanup crew, carries cholesterol back to liver. You want this HIGHER. Above 1.0 for men, 1.3 for women.

Triglycerides — fat storage form in blood. High levels linked to sugar, obesity, diabetes. Keep under 1.7 mmol/L.

What affects these numbers: contrary to old beliefs, eating fat doesn't raise cholesterol as much as refined carbs and sugar do. Exercise improves HDL. Genetics matter too.

Don't just look at total cholesterol. Look at the breakdown. Most lipid issues are manageable with lifestyle changes and, if needed, medication.