**What is the difference between good and bad cholesterol?**
Good cholesterol, or high-density lipoprotein (HDL), helps remove cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease. In contrast, bad cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein (LDL), can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular conditions. Maintaining a healthy balance between HDL and LDL is crucial for overall heart health; higher levels of HDL are desirable, while lower levels of LDL are recommended.