Description
Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) are two different types of lipoproteins found in your blood. Lipoproteins are a combination of proteins and various types of fats. They carry cholesterol and triglycerides through your bloodstream.Cholesterol is a fatty substance that’s necessary for building cells. In the body, it’s most commonly created in your liver through a complex pathway. Triglycerides are another type of fat that’s used to store extra energy in your cells.The main difference between VLDL and LDL is that they have different percentages of the cholesterol, protein, and triglycerides that make up each lipoprotein. VLDL contains more triglycerides. LDL contains more cholesterol.
VLDL and LDL are both considered types of “bad” cholesterol. While your body needs both cholesterol and triglycerides to function, having too much of them can cause them to build up in your arteries. This can increase your risk for heart disease and stroke.High triglycerides are also associated with metabolic syndrome and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
VLDL is created in your liver to carry triglycerides throughout your body. The strategy for lowering your VLDL is to increase physical exercise and eat a healthy variety of foods.Quitting smoking and decreasing alcohol consumption can be beneficial as well. Patient should fast 9-12 hours prior to blood collection.
