Definition of HDL Cholesterol

HDL cholesterol is commonly known as the "good" cholesterol. This is because high levels of HDL cholesterol appears to lower a person's chances of heart attack, whereas low levels seem to increase the risk of heart attack.

What Does HDL Cholesterol Do?

• HDL cholesterol is responsible for carrying excess cholesterol in your blood to your liver for disposal. Therefore, the more HDL cholesterol that you have, the less "bad" cholesterol there is in your blood.

What is Considered Good HDL Cholesterol?

• According to the Mayo Clinic, most of us should aim for HDL cholesterol levels of at least 60 mg/dL or more. If you have HDL levels below 40 mg/dL, you will be at greater risk for heart disease.

How Do You Test HDL Cholesterol?

• Cholesterol can be measured with a simple blood test. The American Heart Association suggests that every five years, people who are 20 or older should have a fasting lipoprotein profile. This will test both your HDL and LDL levels.

How Do I Raise HDL Cholesterol?

• According to the Mayo Clinic, HDL levels can be raised by making healthy lifestyle choices. Avoid smoking, maintain a healthy weight, get plenty of exercise, eat healthy fats and only drink alcohol in moderation.

Can HDL Cholesterol Be Too High?

• While it is true that higher levels of HDL are a good thing, it is possible that even HDL cholesterol may be made up of "good" HDL and "bad" HDL. Clinical trials sponsored by Pfizer, a major pharmaceutical company, have shown that medications raising HDL fail to prevent heart disease in some people. This may be due to variations in HDL particles, some of which may actually increase risk for heart disease.