Which type of cholesterol is known as the "good" cholesterol?

High-density lipoproteins, commonly referred to as HDL, are recognized as the "good" cholesterol. This designation stems from HDL's role in transporting cholesterol from the body back to the liver, where it can be metabolized and excreted. Higher levels of HDL are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease because they help to clear excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, preventing the buildup of plaques in the arteries.

In contrast, low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are often labeled as "bad" cholesterol due to their tendency to contribute to the formation of arterial plaques. Very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) and triglycerides also play roles in lipid metabolism but are not considered beneficial in the same way HDL is. Triglycerides, while important for energy storage, do not perform the protective cardiovascular function that HDL does. Therefore, HDL is specifically valued for its beneficial properties in cardiovascular health, making it the correct answer in this context.