Data on the situation and trends in the number of people living with HIV Data on the situation and trends in the number of people living with HIV Skip to main content
High blood cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is a fat (also called a lipid) that your body needs to work properly. Too much bad cholesterol can increase your chance of getting heart disease, stroke, and other problems. The medical term for high blood cholesterol is lipid disorder, hyperlipidemia, or hypercholesterolemia. There are many types of cholesterol. The ones talked about most are:
Not all cholesterol is created equal. HDL, or high density lipoprotein, is known as good cholesterol. This is a very beneficial cholesterol to have in high levels, as it carries the fat through the blood and prevents it from depositing on you arteries. Bad cholesterol is known as LDL or low density lipoprotein. You should also consider your triglyceride levels. Total cholesterol levels should ideally be between 100-200 mg/dL for an adult. Diet plays an important part in your cholesterol levels. It can both raise and lower your numbers. Here are 12 LDL cholesterol lowering foods for you to enjoy.