Understanding Lipids

Lipids are fats found in your body's cells and in your bloodstream. There are three types of lipids your doctor measures: Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C), High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides. Lipids can be fuel for your body. Unfortunately, some in excess may cause health problems. High triglycerides and high LDL-C levels have both been linked to heart disease. If you have high levels of either lipid, you are at risk. If you have high levels of both, then your risk increases even more.1

Understanding Triglycerides


Click to View

Like cholesterol, triglycerides are a form of fat that is stored in your body as a source of energy. When your body has more stored fat than it needs, triglycerides collect in your bloodstream and can cause heart problems. In rare cases, very high triglycerides may increase the risk of pancreatic disease.

If your triglycerides are above normal, your doctor may recommend avoiding foods high in cholesterol and saturated fat, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking. You may also need to monitor the amount of carbohydrates you eat. (Carbohydrates are found in foods that contain sugars and starches.) If your triglyceride levels remain very high after trying these measures, and your doctor thinks you are at risk for heart disease, he/she may prescribe medications, like LOFIBRA®, to reduce them to a healthier level.

Understanding Cholesterol

Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C)

LDL-C is called "bad" cholesterol because when there is too much LDL-C in your blood, it attaches to walls of blood vessels making them narrower. This can lead to an increased risk of heart attack or strokes.1 That's why it's important to lower LDL-C.

High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C)

HDL-C is often called "good" cholesterol because it is your body's natural way of clearing LDL-C out of its system. It carries bad cholesterol to the liver where it is removed from the body. This helps to protect your heart and prevent a stroke.

Reference

1. American Heart Association. About cholesterol. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org. Accessed November 7, 2005.