Carriers, not villains
Cholesterol travels in lipoproteins. LDL carries it to tissues; when there is too much circulating for too long, particles lodge in artery walls. HDL helps carry cholesterol back to the liver.
Triglycerides and the ratio
High triglycerides with low HDL is a strong signal of insulin resistance and is often more informative than total cholesterol alone. It usually responds well to cutting refined carbohydrate and alcohol.
What moves the numbers
Soluble fibre, unsaturated fats from olive oil, nuts and fish, regular aerobic activity, and reducing trans and excess saturated fat all improve the panel. Weight loss improves triglycerides quickly.