What is LDL cholesterol and why is it bad?

LDL cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, is deemed "bad" cholesterol due to its propensity to promote the accumulation of cholesterol within the intima (one of the coats) of arteries.

When LDL particles infiltrate the arterial wall, they undergo oxidative modifications, inciting an inflammatory response. Consequently, this triggers the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, which can lead to arterial stenosis and impair blood flow.

Moreover, if one of these plaques ruptures, it can induce thrombosis and result in a heart attack or stroke, underscoring the detrimental effects of elevated LDL cholesterol levels on cardiovascular health.