HDL vs. LDL: What's the Difference?

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LDL (low-density lipoprotein) carries cholesterol from the liver out to the body's tissues, and excess LDL can be deposited in artery walls, while HDL (high-density lipoprotein) collects surplus cholesterol and carries it back to the liver for removal. That is why LDL is called "bad" and HDL "good" cholesterol, although both are carriers of the same cholesterol molecule.

At a glance

	HDL	LDL
Full name	High-density lipoprotein	Low-density lipoprotein
Main job	Returns excess cholesterol to the liver	Delivers cholesterol from the liver to cells
Effect on arteries	Linked to lower risk of plaque build-up	Excess builds fatty plaque in artery walls
Desired level	Higher is generally better	Lower is generally better
Raised by	Regular exercise, not smoking	Saturated and trans fats, some genes

Which should you use?

HDL

HDL is the number to watch when assessing protection: a lipid profile showing low HDL, common in people who are inactive or smoke, signals higher heart risk.

LDL

LDL is the main target when lowering heart-disease risk, for example when a routine lipid profile in an Indian health check-up shows it is high; a doctor interprets the result.

Frequently asked questions

Why is HDL called good cholesterol?

Because HDL particles pick up excess cholesterol from tissues and artery walls and return it to the liver, which removes it in bile. People with higher HDL tend to have less heart disease, though the relationship is not simply cause and effect.

What is a lipid profile test?

It is a blood test measuring total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. Results are given in mg/dL in India and the US, and mmol/L in the UK and many other countries. A doctor interprets them alongside other risk factors.

Does eating cholesterol raise LDL?

For most people, dietary cholesterol has a smaller effect than saturated and trans fats, which push the liver to raise LDL levels. The liver makes most of the body's cholesterol itself, and individual responses vary.