Does a Vegan Diet Lower Cholesterol?

Vegan diets are associated with numerous health benefits, but how does it impact your cardiovascular health? Learn the basics of cholesterol and how to keep it at a healthy level.

1. High-density lipoprotein (HDL)

Often called “good” cholesterol, HDL works to remove cholesterol from your artery walls and circulation, taking it back to your liver to be excreted from your body. 

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Types of Cholesterol

Known best as “bad” cholesterol, LDL particles move cholesterol into your tissues and are associated with the accumulation of plaque in your arteries.  

2. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)

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These particles are produced by your liver and carry triglycerides (fatty acids) to your tissues. When fatty acids are removed from VLDLs by your cells, VLDLs morph first into IDLs and eventually LDLs.

3. Very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)

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As mentioned above, IDLs are created when fatty acids are extracted from VLDLs. Some of these are excreted via the liver while others become LDLs. 

4. Intermediate-density lipoproteins (IDL)

These are very large particles made in your digestive system. They primarily carry triglycerides and are influenced by your diet.

5. Chylomicrons

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