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LDL Cholesterol

Also known as: LDL; LDL-C
Formal name: Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol
Related tests: Cholesterol; HDL; Triglycerides; Lipid profile; Direct LDL Cholesterol; Cardiac Risk Assessment; Lp(a); Apo A; Apo B; Lp-PLA2

Common Questions

1.  What treatments are recommended for high LDL levels?

The first step in treating high LDL cholesterol is adoption of lifestyle changes, including decreasing the amount of saturated fat in the diet, achieving and maintaining desirable body weight, and getting regular exercise. If lifestyle changes do not adequately lower LDL cholesterol, drugs may be prescribed.

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2.  How much will LDL cholesterol change as a result of lifestyle changes, like exercise or diet?

Adoption of a diet low in saturated fat (less than 7% of calories from saturated fat) will usually lower LDL cholesterol by about 10%.

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