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Low HDL Syndrome

HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) is considered "good" cholesterol because HDL removes LDL from blood and helps limit plaque formation in the arteries. A low level of HDL in the blood is one of the factors that increases the danger of heart problems and stroke due to blood clots. When low HDL occurs as a component of certain other conditions such as hypertension and the inability to process glucose, it can increase heart disease and is known as metabolic syndrome.

  1. HDL and Metabolic Syndrome

    • The term "metabolic syndrome" is also called "Syndrome X" or "Insulin resistance syndrome." Low HDL is one of the indicators of the condition. The American Heart Association considers a minimum of three of the following as indicating metabolic syndrome: High abdominal fat, high triglycerides, high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol and low HDL cholesterol, an inability of the body to properly use blood sugar or insulin.

    Definition of Low HDL

    • The level of HDL is considered low when its concentration in the blood is less than 40 mg/dL in men or less than 50 mg/dL in women.

    Risks of low HDL

    • Those who have the metabolic syndrome with low HDL levels have a greater risk of developing serious health problems including coronary disease, stroke or vascular disease, or Type 2 diabetes.

    Risk Factors

    • Obesity is a major factor in low HDL and metabolic syndrome, especially when the fat is concentrated in the abdomen. The risk of metabolic syndrome appears to rise as people get older, however children can also show its symptoms. Caucasians have less risk than Asians and Hispanics.

    Improving Low HDL Through Diet

    • Levels of HDL can be improved with a combination of factors. The most significant improvement is often based on changing the diet to emphasize a healthier balance of fruits, vegetables, grains and low fat protein. High fat and sugars should be limited. Weight loss is important for those who are overweight.

    Other Lifestyle Factors

    • Regular exercise has also been shown to help increase the levels of HDL. It's also recommended to avoid smoking since cigarettes can affect the ability of the body to manage insulin levels, another factor in metabolic syndrome.

    Medications

    • If diet, exercise and other lifestyle changes are not enough to improve HDL levels, prescription medications are available to help control cholesterol levels and manage other conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes that are related to metabolic syndrome.

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