High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is one component of cholesterol. But unlike low-density lipoprotein or triglycerides, which most people need to lower, a higher number is better when it comes to HDL. Instead of having a maximum amount that you want to stay below, HDL has a recommended minimum measurement that you should aim to exceed.
The Facts
Both men and women should aim to maintain HDL cholesterol levels greater than 60 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), according to MayoClinic.com. Letting your HDL levels drop lower than 40 mg/dL if you're a man or lower than 50 mg/dL if you're a woman can put you at increased risk for heart disease.
Identification
If you're not sure what your blood cholesterol levels are, your doctor can perform a test called a lipoprotein profile to determine them. This test, which requires you to fast for 9 to 12 hours beforehand, measures your total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides, as well as your HDL level, explains the National Cholesterol Education Program.
Significance
HDL is sometimes called good cholesterol because it helps pick up excess cholesterol in your blood vessels and transport it out of your body so it doesn't create build-up with the potential to clog your arteries. Because of this, high HDL levels lower your risk for heart attack and stroke, explains the American Heart Association.
Expert Insight
If your HDL levels are lower than they should be, there are several ways to raise them. If you smoke, cutting out cigarettes can increase your HDL level by as much as 10 percent, according to MayoClinic.com. Increasing your daily physical activity so that you're getting at least 30 minutes of exercise five times a week can increase your HDL by as much as 5 percent, notes MayoClinic.com. And if you're overweight, you can increase your HDL by as much as 1 mg/dL for every 6 lbs. of excess weight you lose, adds MayoClinic.com.
Considerations
Keep in mind that your total blood cholesterol level includes HDL. In general, you should aim to maintain a total blood cholesterol level lower than 200 mg/dL, but if your total blood cholesterol is high because of high levels of HDL, you may not be at risk. It's advisable to check with your health care provider if you have concerns about your specific cholesterol results.
