Not All “HDLs” are Good Cholesterols
We’ve known for some time now that there are different subtypes of HDL cholesterol, commonly known as the “good” cholesterol. Now research is coming forth showing clinical and epidemiological evidence that not all HDLs are heterogeneous in size, density, and, consequently, atheroprotective roles.
A new study published in the December, 2008 issue of The Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB), indicates that having a high level of the so –called “bad” HDLs can have a negative effect on the body’s risk for cardiovascular disease. This bad HDL does not have the antioxidant capabilities of the good HDLs nor does it have the anti-inflammatory properties.
The researchers came to this conclusion after reviewing medical literature where they found that the HDL from people with chronic diseases is different from the HDL in healthy individuals even when the absolute blood value is comparable.
This discovery will “re-write the book on cholesterol” the editor –in-chief of The FASEB Journal commented. It may also explain why some people can have perfect cholesterol levels, but still develop heart disease. Approximately 17% of Americans are at risk for heart disease based on cholesterol levels alone. If we add bad “HDLs” to the risk profile, the numbers will increase even further.
A correspondence published in the same Journal remarked on the chemical structure of the HDL moiety(http://www.fasebj.org/cgi/content/abstract/22/12/4044) . The author commented here that the emerging notion that particle quality has more predictive power than quanity has stimulated further exploration of the HDL proeome, already revealing unsuspected pro- or antiatherogenic proteins/peptides associated with the HDL.
About the author
Kathy Shattler received her Master of Science degree from Michigan State University in E. Lansing Michigan in Human Nutrition. Her twenty-two years of practice includes holding positions as a Lecturer, Chief Clinical Dietitian and Program Manager. Kathy is the Founder of Nutri-Care Consulting and is currently the Nutrition Director of www.CEU4U.COM, an online continuing education management company for Registered Dietitians and Dietetic Technicians.
