Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance that is made by the liver and is also found in some foods. Cholesterol can play a role in the development of cardiovascular problems due to its effects on blood vessels. Not all forms of cholesterol are bad, however. One form of cholesterol, known as high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is actually good for you.
Low-density Lipoprotein
Lipoproteins are combinations of cholesterol, other lipids and protein, which are used to transport lipids throughout the body. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, also known as LDL, is known as the "bad" cholesterol. This form of cholesterol is made by adding cholesterol to other lipoproteins, known as very-low-density lipoproteins and intermediate-density lipoproteins. High levels of LDL cholesterol are associated with atherosclerosis, a condition in which cholesterol accumulates in the walls of the arteries.
High-density Lipoprotein
High-density lipoprotein is the "good" form of cholesterol. This HDL is made by the liver and initially contains very little cholesterol. The HDL molecules travel throughout the blood and scavenge extra cholesterol from other cells, ultimately transporting the cholesterol back to the liver. Because HDL molecules remove cholesterol from the blood, they can help prevent atherosclerosis. High levels of HDL are associated with a decreased risk of developing a heart attack or stroke.
HDL Levels
Your HDL level can be measured using a blood test known as a lipid profile, which reports cholesterol levels in units of mg per dL of blood. An optimal amount of HDL cholesterol is anything over 60. Normal levels for men are between 40 and 49, with women normally coming in between 50 and 59. Numbers lower than this are considered to be low and can put you at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular problems.
Increasing Good Cholesterol
If you have a low amount of HDL cholesterol in your blood, many ways are available for you to increase the amount of this beneficial form of cholesterol. Losing excess body weight and getting more exercise can boost your HDL levels. If you smoke, quitting smoking will also result in an increase in HDL. Eating less saturated and trans fats will increase your HDL levels and lower your levels of LDL. Finally, drinking alcohol in moderation can also raise your HDL levels.
