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What Does a High HDL Indicate?

High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is a lipoprotein that carries about 30 percent of blood cholesterol in the body. HDL cholesterol particles are commonly referred to as "good cholesterol" as opposed to low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, which is commonly referred to as "bad cholesterol."

  1. What is Considered High HDL?

    • Ask your doctor for both cholesterol numbers

      Your doctor will test your cholesterol levels and give you two numbers, one for HDL and one for LDL. For HDL, here's what the numbers mean:
      Less than 40 for men and less than 50 for women: Low HDL cholesterol. This indicates a heightened risk for heart disease
      40--59: Medium HDL level
      Greater than 60. High HDL level. This is the optimal number, which can indicate protection against heart disease.

    High HDL Levels are Good!

    • Keep your body happy with high HDL

      Not only is a high HDL level an indicator of decreased risk for heart disease, it's also been proven that people with high HDL levels have a lower risk of developing many other conditions, such as dementia, stroke and liver disease.

    Raising HDL Levels

    • Be active!

      There are simple things you can do to keep your HDL levels high without resorting to prescription medication. Exercise is key. Get out there and make sure you are getting your heart rate up. Are you a smoker? Quitting can raise your HDL levels in addition to providing numerous other benefits. Other HDL-raising activities include limiting alcohol, adding soluble fiber to your diet and taking an omega-3 fish oil supplement.

    What About LDL?

    • Fortunately, the same activities that help raise your HDL also help lower your LDL. It is just as important to ensure that your LDL levels are kept in check. These two lipoproteins work together.

    When Medication is Necessary

    • Today, there are a lot of options for people who can't raise their HDL levels to offset high levels of LDL. Talk to your doctor about medication, the side effects and long-term benefits of taking a prescription drug. Your doctor might be able to help you through vitamin supplements or might prescribe a cholesterol-lowering medication to help you stay healthy.

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