What Do Lipoproteins Do?

Cholesterol does not travel alone in the bloodstream. It is unable to circulate freely in blood because it is a fat-like substance and blood is more watery. An example of this would be how Italian dressing separates into two layers of fluid (a fatty layer and a water layer) when you allow it to settle. Instead, cholesterol combines with a protein that allows it to become more soluble in the blood. This cholesterol-protein complex is referred to as a lipoprotein. There are four major types of lipoproteins that are measured when you have your cholesterol screening. The ratio at which these occur is a good indicator as to whether someone has an increased risk for heart disease.