Which type of cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol?

The type of cholesterol often referred to as "bad" cholesterol is LDL, or low-density lipoprotein. This designation arises from the role LDL plays in transporting cholesterol to tissues throughout the body. Elevated levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to the development of plaque in arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke.

In contrast, HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, is known as "good" cholesterol because it helps transport cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it can be processed and eliminated from the body. VLDL, or very-low-density lipoprotein, is also associated with the transport of triglycerides and can contribute to increased LDL levels as it is converted in the bloodstream. Chylomicrons are responsible for transporting dietary lipids from the intestines to other locations in the body and don't fall into the "bad" cholesterol classification. Therefore, LDL is primarily associated with negative cardiovascular outcomes, emphasizing its identification as "bad" cholesterol.