The signs and symptoms of low high-density lipoproteins, or HDL cholesterol, can be quite serious. Although the link between high cholesterol and heart disease is widely known, some people may not be aware of the dangers of low cholesterol. The results of a cholesterol blood test reveal two numbers, one for low-density lipoproteins, or LDL, and the other for HDL. High LDL levels, also known as bad cholesterol, can increase the risk of developing heart disease. But high levels of HDL, or good cholesterol, can help lower the risk for heart disease. Conversely, low HDL levels can increase that risk.
Depression and Suicidal Tendencies
Low HDL cholesterol is associated with higher than average suicide attempt rates in women. In a December 2005 article published in the "Journal of Affective Disorders," Dr. Jian Zhang writes that higher suicide attempt rates were noted in women, ages 17 to 39, with HDL rates of less than or equal to 40 mg/dl. The correlation between low HDL and suicide was independent of socioeconomic status and any history of depression. No correlation between low HDL and suicide was noted in men. According to Columbia University, low HDL levels are associated with anxiety and depression.
Type 2 Diabetes
Low HDL cholesterol is one of several risk factors associated with the development of type 2 diabetes, or adult-onset diabetes. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, metabolic syndrome is present in men who have an HDL level below 40 mg/dl. Metabolic syndrome is present in women with an HDL level under 50 mg/dl for women, or taking medication for low HDL levels. Metabolic syndrome is the name physicians give to a group of factors that place an individual at risk of developing diabetes. Other factors include aging, having a sedentary lifestyle, and having a large waist circumference.
Heart Disease
Just as high LDL levels can increase the risk of developing heart disease, low HDL levels can increase that risk, according to the American Heart Association. HDL acts as a blood cleanser, transporting cholesterol and plaque from the arteries to the liver, where it is removed from exits the body as waste. Too little HDL in the blood and this process is interrupted, allowing bad cholesterol and plaque to build up and clog arteries.
References
- "Journal of Affective Disorders"; Low HDL-C is Significantly Associated with Suicide Attempts in Women; Jian Zhang, Ph.D.; December 2005
- NDIC: Insulin Resistance
- AHA: Good Versus Bad Cholesterol
- Columbia University: Health Implications of Low Cholesterol
