On August 23, 2025, Dr. Viveka Kumar, Vice Chairman & Chief of Cath Labs (Pan Max) – Cardiac Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, used LinkedIn to highlight a key aspect of heart health: knowing and managing cholesterol numbers.

His linked feature for NDTV Health provided a detailed explanation of HDL (“good”) and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, emphasizing their respective roles and the risks associated with imbalance.

Cholesterol is a fat found in the blood, essential for many bodily functions, but excess cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis and heart disease. According to Dr. Kumar, “Cholesterol is a fat found in your blood that is necessary for the development of healthy cells. But too much cholesterol in your blood can increase your risk of heart disease. Knowing the difference between HDL and LDL cholesterol is crucial to a healthy heart.”

HDL cholesterol is often regarded as the “good” cholesterol, because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. “HDL cholesterol assists in eliminating other forms of cholesterol from your blood. HDL transports cholesterol out of the arteries and to the liver, where it is processed and eliminated,”

Dr. Kumar explained. He advised that for men, HDL should be at least 40 mg/dL, and for women, at least 50 mg/dL. Levels of 60 mg/dL or higher are considered protective against heart disease.

Conversely, LDL cholesterol is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease when elevated. “LDL cholesterol is one of the causes of plaque in arteries. This may result in atherosclerosis and pose a risk for heart attack and stroke,” said Dr. Kumar.

Optimal LDL levels should be under 100 mg/dL, with 100–129 mg/dL classified as near optimal. Borderline high readings range from 130–159 mg/dL, while readings above 160 mg/dL are considered high or very high. Triglycerides, another type of blood fat, should be maintained below 150 mg/dL, and total cholesterol should be kept under 200 mg/dL.

Dr. Kumar stressed that individual lipid targets may vary based on age, sex, genetic background, diabetes status, and other cardiovascular risk factors. “Keeping an eye on your HDL and LDL cholesterol is essential for heart health. Strive for higher HDL and lower LDL to cut down your risk of heart disease,” he concluded.

Promoting healthy cholesterol requires lifestyle changes: a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol. Dr. Kumar recommended regular health checks to ensure optimal cholesterol control, empowering people to take proactive steps for a healthier heart and longer life