Q. 15.53 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

Why is $LDL$ called "bad" cholesterol?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

When the amount of cholesterol required by the tissues rises, $LDLs$ deposit cholesterol in the arteries, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of developing heart disease such as myocardial infarction. 

Step1: Introduction.

The majority of your body's cholesterol is $LDL$ (low-density lipoprotein), also known as "bad" cholesterol. High cholesterol levels raise the chances of having a cardiac event.

Step2: Given Information.

For this reason,$LDL$ cholesterol is referred to as "bad" cholesterol.

Step3: Explanation.

When the amount of cholesterol required by the tissues rises, $LDLs$ deposit cholesterol in the arteries, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of developing heart disease such as myocardial infarction.