Physicians may often use the terms ‘good’ and ‘bad’ when discussing cholesterol with their patients, suggesting that lower levels of ‘bad’ cholesterol can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and developing cardiovascular disease (CVD).1
Cholesterol is a type of lipid (fat), which plays an important part in the structure and function of cell membranes and is required for the synthesis of hormones and vitamin D.2 Around 80% of it is produced naturally in the body and is carried in the blood attached to proteins, forming ‘lipoprotein’ particles.2
However, what exactly is the difference between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol – and how can people keep both within a healthy range?
What Is LDL Cholesterol?
LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) stands for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, one of two main types of cholesterol particles in your blood. The other one is high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL).1 These particles help transport cholesterol, a fat-like substance your body needs, through your bloodstream.1
Cholesterol itself is vital – it supports cell structure and hormone production. But how it is carried matters:2
● HDL cholesterol is often called ‘good‘ because it helps remove cholesterol from the bloodstream.1
● LDL cholesterol is known as ‘bad‘ because it delivers cholesterol to your arteries, where it can build up.1
Why Is LDL-C Considered ‘Bad’ Cholesterol?
When LDL cholesterol builds up in your arteries, it can form plaques – fatty deposits that harden and narrow the arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis.1 Although it was once believed that higher HDL-C levels always offered protection, recent studies show that the key risk factor is high LDL-C, not low HDL-C.3
What Are Normal LDL Cholesterol Levels?
While genetics do play a role in determining a person’s cholesterol levels, everyday lifestyle choices have a significant impact – especially on LDL cholesterol.1 People living with cardiovascular disease (CVD) or those at increased cardiovascular risk are often encouraged to eat a balanced diet and stay physically active to maintain healthy cholesterol levels over time.1 However, when LDL cholesterol remains high despite these efforts, medical treatment may be recommended – based on individual risk assessment by a healthcare professional.1
How to lower LDL Cholesterol effectively
To reduce your risk of heart disease, it’s important to understand how cholesterol can be controlled – and where to start.
Why Monitoring Matters
High cholesterol – especially LDL-C – usually shows no outward symptoms. The only way to detect it is through a blood test that measures your cholesterol levels.5,6 That’s why regular health check-ups are so important – particularly for people at risk of cardiovascular disease. Knowing your numbers gives you and your healthcare provider a chance to act early and effectively.6
The Lower the Better, the Longer the Better
Doctors often refer to the principle: “The lower the better, the longer the better.” This means that the lower your LDL cholesterol is – and the longer you maintain that low level – the better for your heart.2
Low LDL Cholesterol Dietary Tips
Diet plays a major role in cholesterol management. While older guidelines focused mainly on reducing saturated and trans fats (like red meat, full-fat dairy or fried foods), newer dietary advice encourages adding foods for lower cholesterol:
● Whole grains (e.g., oats, barley),
● legumes (beans, lentils),
● nuts and seeds,
● low-fat or fat-free dairy,
● fresh fruits and vegetables.1,6
European guidelines state that there is no harmful lower limit for LDL cholesterol – and for people with very high levels, the recommended goal is to lower them by at least 50%.4
Start Early for Lasting Impact
The effect of LDL cholesterol is cumulative – it builds up slowly over many years.7 Plaques build up over time, which means that achieving and maintaining low LDL cholesterol levels from an early age ultimately reduces the risk of cardiovascular events (when compared to lowered LDL-C levels only in later in life). That’s why it’s especially important to keep levels low from an early age.8 Earlier intervention provides the greatest long-term benefit. Making small, healthy changes today can help protect your heart for decades to come.
How aware is the public of our cholesterol levels in Europe?
Although many people are aware that high cholesterol is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, studies show that only around half of adults know their current cholesterol levels.9
In some countries, such as the UK and the Netherlands, this awareness drops even further – with fewer than 40% of people knowing their cholesterol levels.9
This lack of awareness can delay action – making early prevention more difficult; therefore raising public understanding of cholesterol’s role in heart health is essential.9
According to the World Health Organization, up to 80% of heart attacks and strokes are preventable.10 Yet this requires regular check-ups, access to reliable information, and motivation to act.
At Daiichi Sankyo Europe, we are dedicated to raising awareness of cardiovascular disease by driving awareness campaigns such as “Mind the GAC” – to empower more people to take an active role in protecting their heart health.
