Cholesterol is a substance that is produced naturally by your body. It is used for a variety of functions such as in the production of hormones, bile acid and vitamin D. Your body needs some cholesterol but too much can cause health problems and lead to heart disease. HDL is a form of cholesterol that is considered desirable and is tested by taking a sample of your blood.
HDL
HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein. HDL is desirable because it helps carry cholesterol, triglycerides and other fats in your blood to your liver for excretion from your body. This decreases the amount in your blood and decreases the amount that can stick to your arteries. Thus, the higher your HDL levels, the lower your risk for heart disease. To determine how much HDL you have in your blood, an HDL blood test is performed.
HDL Cholesterol Test
An HDL test is similar to a full cholesterol test. The test involves a blood sample taken from your arm by a health care provider. You may have to stop taking certain medications and avoid eating for a period of time before the exam. Your doctor will instruct you on the procedure. According to MedlinePlus, the laboratory test for HDL actually measures how much cholesterol is in each high-density lipoprotein particle, not the actual amount of HDL in your blood.
Ideal Results
In general, your risk for heart disease increases if your HDL cholesterol level is less than 40 mg/dL. A normal reading is above 40 mg/dL and a reading of 60 mg/dL or above helps protect you against heart disease. Each laboratory may have different normal values, but your doctor will know how to interpret your results.
Considerations
Your cholesterol level is important; if it is too high for a long period of time, then you might develop further illness which could lead to serious health problems. Foods that contain high levels of saturated fat, trans fat and dietary cholesterol can raise your total cholesterol levels. These foods don't raise your HDL; instead, they raise LDL, triglycerides and other undesirable forms of cholesterol. To raise your HDL and lower other forms of cholesterol, eat a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats from fish and engage in regular exercise.
