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How does cholesterol affect your body?

Medicine & HealthLesson on requestFree to read

Quick answer

Cholesterol travels through your blood on two carriers. LDL drops cholesterol off in artery walls, where too much builds sticky plaque that narrows the vessel. HDL picks it back up and carries it to the liver for disposal — which is why the balance matters.

Step by step

  1. Cholesterol moves through blood on LDL and HDL carriers.
  2. LDL deposits it in artery walls as plaque.
  3. Plaque narrows arteries and slows blood flow.
  4. HDL removes cholesterol back to the liver.

People also ask

How does cholesterol clog arteries?
Excess LDL cholesterol seeps into artery walls and builds up as plaque, which narrows and stiffens the vessel over time.
How does HDL help?
HDL collects extra cholesterol from the blood and tissues and carries it to the liver to be removed.
Can I change my cholesterol?
Yes — diet, exercise, and, when needed, medication can lower LDL and support healthier levels.