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Role of HDL

High density lipo-protein (HDL) cholesterol comprises 1/3 to 1/4 of total blood cholesterol. Because of its positive role in the body, HDL cholesterol is often called "good cholesterol."

  1. About HDL

    • HDL removes LDL (bad cholesterol) from the bloodstream and transports it to the liver, where it is metabolized and eliminated from the body.

    Benefits

    • Because HDL is instrumental in removing bad cholesterol from the bloodstream, high levels of HDL cholesterol have been linked to a decreased risk of heart attack, stroke and other negative cardiovascular events.

    Exercise

    • Regular physical activity boosts the body's production of HDL cholesterol. Even light exercise such as walking, gardening or engaging in other forms of manual labor has been shown to stimulate the production of HDL, according to the American Heart Association.

    Diet

    • Consuming healthy oils such as olive and canola oil can raise HDL levels. Additional sources of HDL include foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids such as kelp or fish.

    Levels

    • Cholesterol is measured in milligrams per deciliter of blood. According to The Mayo Clinic For Medical Research, adult men and women should aim for HDL levels of 60mg/dL and higher. HDL levels should not fall below 40mg/dL.

    Harmful Activities

    • Engaging in certain activities such as smoking, heavy drinking, leading a sedentary lifestyle and making unhealthy high fat food choices will lower HDL levels, and rob you of the cardiovascular protection of this "good cholesterol."

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