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What Is a Normal HDL Number?

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as "good cholesterol," as it helps to prevent plaque buildup inside arteries, while its cousin, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), causes buildup. A healthy person has high HDL levels and low LDL levels.

  1. Measures

    • Cholesterol of both kinds is measured in milligrams per deciliter of blood, or mg/dL. A clinic measures both kinds when running what is called a lipid panel.

    Three Numbers

    • A lipid panel defines three numbers: HDL, LDL, and triglycerides. LDL is normally higher than HDL, and the two combined equal the total cholesterol.

    HDL Numbers

    • The Mayo Clinic defines HDL numbers as follows: below 40 mg/dL is poor for a man; below 50 mg/dL is poor for a woman; 50 to 59 mg/dL is better; 60 mg/dL and above is best.

    Ratio

    • The HDL number by itself is useful, but a more useful number is the cholesterol ratio. If your LDL is 200 mg/dL and your HDL 50 mg/dL, your ratio is 4:1. Mayo Clinic advises keeping the ration below 5:1 to lower the risk of heart disease.

    Moving HDL Numbers

    • Generally, it is easier to move the LDL number with diet or medication than to move the HDL number. So the goal is generally to achieve a better ratio, rather than a better HDL number. Most dietary and lifestyle changes that lower LDL also raise HDL, somewhat.

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