What Is Cholesterol? Understanding LDL, HDL and Your Results

Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body uses to build cells and make hormones. Your liver makes the cholesterol your body needs. Problems arise when blood lipid levels and other risk factors contribute to disease in the arteries.

Updated September 24, 2026

LDL, HDL and triglycerides

• LDL cholesterol: often called “bad” cholesterol because excess LDL contributes to plaque buildup in arteries.
• HDL cholesterol: helps transport cholesterol back toward the liver. A high HDL result does not cancel the risk from high LDL.
• Triglycerides: a different type of blood fat. They are assessed alongside cholesterol in a lipid panel.
• Total cholesterol: an overall measure that needs to be interpreted with the other results, not in isolation.

Can you feel high cholesterol?

High cholesterol often has no symptoms. A blood test is needed to find out your levels. Ask your healthcare professional when to test and whether you need to fast; screening and follow-up schedules depend on your age, history and risk.

What should my numbers be?

There is no single treatment target appropriate for every reader. Someone who has already had cardiovascular disease may need a different LDL goal from someone at lower risk. Your clinician may consider blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, kidney disease, family history and other factors alongside the lipid panel.

Bring the full report, including units, to your appointment. Useful questions include: Which result needs attention? What is my personal goal? Would lifestyle changes alone be enough? When should I repeat the test?

What can help?

A heart-healthy eating pattern, suitable physical activity and avoiding tobacco can support cardiovascular health. Depending on risk, medication may also be recommended. Having a healthy diet does not mean you should stop prescribed cholesterol medicine, and a high result is not always caused by diet alone.

For food choices and meal ideas, read Dietary management of cholesterol. This companion article explains fats, fiber and practical swaps without promising a food-based cure.

Sources

• American Heart Association: What is cholesterol?
• American Heart Association: LDL, HDL and triglycerides
• American Heart Association: What your cholesterol levels mean

Farha Zaidi · Nutritionist, Healthy Bite Hub. About the author.

Educational information only; not a substitute for individual medical advice.