Utah Special Function Officer (SFO) Practice Exam

Which type of cholesterol is known as "good" cholesterol?

1. LDL

2. VLDL

3. HDL

4. Triglycerides

The correct answer is: HDL

HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, is recognized as "good" cholesterol. This designation stems from its role in helping to remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream. HDL works by transporting excess cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it can be processed and eliminated from the body. This function is crucial because elevated levels of other forms of cholesterol, particularly LDL (low-density lipoprotein), are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Higher levels of HDL are linked to a lower risk of these cardiovascular diseases, making it beneficial for heart health. In contrast, LDL is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol due to its tendency to deposit cholesterol in the arterial walls, contributing to plaque formation. VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein) is similar to LDL and is also associated with increased heart disease risk because it carries triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood, and while they are important for energy storage, high levels can also contribute to cardiovascular risk factors. Hence, HDL's protective role distinguishes it as the "good" cholesterol, which highlights its importance in cardiovascular health.