Definition
Lipoproteins are mixtures of cholesterol and proteins in the blood. They that transport cholesterol, triglycerides, and other lipids to different parts of the body. There are three types of lipoproteins: high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL).
VLDL is composed mostly of cholesterol, with not much protein. VLDL is often called "bad cholesterol" because it leaves cholesterol on the walls of arteries. Increased levels of VLDL are associated with atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.
On the contrary, high density lipoprotein (HDL), sometimes referred to as "good cholesterol," seems to protect against diseases of the blood vessels and heart disease.
Alternative Names
Very low density lipoproteinNormal Values
Normal VLDL cholesterol level is between 5 and 40 mg/dL.
| • | Protein in diet |
| • | Cholesterol |
| • | Triglyceride level |
| • | Fat |
| • | Atherosclerosis |
| • | Stable angina |
| • | HDL |
| • | Heart disease |
Reviewed By: Daniel R Alexander, MD, Department of Internal Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Leonardtown, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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