How does HDL relate to cholesterol?

HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is often regarded as the "good" cholesterol because it plays a crucial role in removing excess cholesterol from tissues, including arteries. Rhonda Patrick explains that HDL particles can scavenge cholesterol from tissues, which is important because excess cholesterol can be toxic to cells. This process is particularly relevant in arteries where macrophages filled with cholesterol can contribute to plaque formation and heart disease 1.

HDL cholesterol levels are strongly associated with lower heart disease risk, and lower HDL cholesterol is a stronger predictive marker of heart disease risk than high LDL cholesterol 1. Despite its beneficial role, efforts to reduce heart disease risk by raising HDL cholesterol through treatments have largely failed. This contrasts with the success of lowering LDL cholesterol, suggesting that while HDL is crucial for cholesterol removal, its role in disease prevention may be more complicated and not directly causative 1.

In terms of therapeutic interventions, raising HDL levels alone does not necessarily lower heart disease risk, whereas reducing LDL levels has shown consistent success. This indicates differing roles and complexities between HDL and LDL in cardiovascular health 1.