We normally have the necessary amount of each type of cholesterol and it can flow smoothly through the arteries. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is the bad or atherogenic cholesterol responsible for plaque formation or obstructions. High-density (HDL) cholesterol is considered good cholesterol because it collects unused cholesterol and returns it to the liver where it is eliminated. It occurs naturally in our body and helps to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood.
The ideal level of LDL should be below 130 mg/dl. The ideal HDL should be above 60 mg/dl. Good cholesterol increases with a diet rich in fibre and low in fat and practicing physical exercise regularly.