Good vs. bad: what makes some cholesterol okay?

Most people know there is a distinction between “good” and “bad” cholesterol. But what makes some good and some bad? And which foods are okay to eat and which should be avoided?

“Good” cholesterol

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as “good” cholesterol. This is because HDL is believed to remove cholesterol from the blood.

When HDL levels in the blood are high, this is believed to reduce a person’s risk of coronary heart disease. The adverse effect occurs when HDL levels are low.

Because genetics play a role in cholesterol levels, what’s good for the goose isn’t always good for the gander...