Importance of HDL

Cholesterol is an important substance that helps to maintain some of the inner functions of your body. There are two different types: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Significance

• HDL is known as good cholesterol. Maintaining HDL levels of 60 mg/dL or higher will help guard against heart disease.

Function

• According to the American Heart Association, HDL is responsible for re-routing cholesterol away from important arteries and back to the liver, where it is funneled through the digestive process and out of the body.

Heart Disease Prevention

• The American Heart Association also states that some medical professionals believe this particular form of cholesterol also removes excess particles from arterial plaque, which shows buildup in the arteries and around the heart muscle.

Effects

• In addition to staving off heart disease, HDL also has some antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also known for its anti-clotting abilities.

Increase HDL

• Lifestyle is the most significant way you can increase levels of HDL. Exercise often, refrain from smoking, eat nutritiously, maintain a healthy body weight and choose healthy fats, like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, to increase HDL.