What is considered 'good' cholesterol in the human body?

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is regarded as 'good' cholesterol in the human body due to its role in cardiovascular health. HDL is responsible for transporting cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it can be metabolized or eliminated from the body. This process helps to reduce the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries, which is a major contributor to heart disease and stroke.

In contrast, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often termed 'bad' cholesterol because high levels of it can lead to cholesterol accumulation in the arteries, forming plaques that can impede blood flow. Very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) is another type of lipoprotein that primarily carries triglycerides in the blood, and elevated levels can also contribute to cardiovascular issues. Triglycerides themselves are a type of fat found in the blood, and while they’re important for energy, high levels can also be associated with various health problems when they are not balanced with HDL levels. Therefore, HDL's protective effects on heart health solidify its classification as 'good' cholesterol.