HDL CHOLESTEROL (GOOD CHOLESTEROL): WHAT IT IS? WHAT ARE IT NORMAL LEVELS?

You’re probably aware that cholesterol levels are essential to your overall health. Lowering cholesterol, in particular, can help keep your heart and blood vessels healthy. So you might be surprised to learn that there is a “good” type of cholesterol. That is none other than HDL cholesterol.

Why is HDL good cholesterol?

HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein. It is often referred to as “good” cholesterol. This is because it absorbs other types of cholesterol and carries them away from your arteries and back to your liver, eliminating them from your body. It reduces the chances of stroke, heart attack, and coronary artery disease.

What are normal levels of HDL cholesterol?

In most cases, HDL-C is measured and reported in milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL).

Normal HDL cholesterol levels vary according to the following:

• Age
• Gender
• Your medical history and risk factors for cardiovascular disease
• Your total cholesterol and other lipid levels

For females, the normal is 50 or higher
for males, the normal is 50 or higher, 40 or higher
Because HDL-C is known as “good cholesterol,” a higher level is preferable, and HDL-C levels above 60 mg/dL are generally considered excellent.

What happens if HDL cholesterol is low?

Less than 50 in females and less than 40 in males is considered Low HDL.

Low HDL levels in the blood increase the chances of :

1. Stroke
2. Heart attack
3. Coronary artery disease.

Have a look at this video for more information about HDL cholesterol

How to improve good cholesterol levels?

To raise good cholesterol levels in the blood, follow these

• get active
• lose weight
• eat more fruits, veggies, fish, flaxseeds, and chia seeds
• cut down fries, junk food, simple sugars, saturated fats, and trans-fat.
• Medicines like statins