High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, cholesterol comprises most of the body's "good" cholesterol, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. High levels of HDL reduce the buildup of fat in the body's arteries that can lead to heart disease, heart attack and stroke. The higher your level of HDL, the lower your risk of heart attack and stroke.
HDL Cholesterol Levels
HDL cholesterol helps carry LDL cholesterol, or "bad" cholesterol, away from the heart and major vessels, which keeps the arteries open and blood flowing more freely. HDL levels of 60mg/dL and above protect against heart disease. HDL levels below 40mg/dL for men and 50mg/dL for women increase the risk of heart disease.
Interpreting Your Cholesterol Level
The optimal level of HDL is greater than 60 mg/dL. Levels below 40 mg/dL for men and 50mg/dL for women increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Medical experts believe HDL carries cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver where it is excreted from the body. A buildup of LDL cholesterol, or "bad" cholesterol, causes the formation of plaque, a hard substance within the arteries that can lead to heart attack and stroke. HDL cholesterol removes excess plaque from the arteries, slowing its buildup.
Improving Your HDL Cholesterol Level
You can take steps to help improve your cholesterol levels. According to the Mayo Clinic, steps to improve your HDL cholesterol levels include eating a healthy diet, losing weight, exercising regularly, drinking alcohol in moderation and not smoking. Medications used to treat your high cholesterol may also increase your HDL cholesterol levels.
When to Have a Cholesterol Test
According to the Mayo Clinic, all adults over the age of 20 should have a cholesterol test every five years. It should ideally be performed when you are relatively healthy as an illness or severe stress can affect cholesterol levels. It is especially important to have your cholesterol checked if you have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease, are overweight, physically inactive, have diabetes and/or eat a high-fat diet. See your doctor to have your HDL levels tested and to determine the best treatment options if you have low HDL levels.
