If you have high levels of blood cholesterol, you are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. There is, however, one form of cholesterol that you want high levels of. HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, is a desirable form of cholesterol and higher levels actually decrease your risk of developing heart disease.
HDL Definition
High-density lipoproteins are lipid molecules that carry excess cholesterol in your blood to your liver for excretion. Therefore, you want higher levels of HDL because it helps keep your overall cholesterol levels lower and decreases the likelihood that the excess cholesterol could form plaque in your arteries. Plaque can lead to blocked arteries, stroke or heart attack. Because HDL is so beneficial to your body, it is often called good cholesterol.
HDL Cholesterol Test
An HDL cholesterol test is a blood test that specifically checks the amount of HDL in your blood. It can be performed by itself or in combination with other forms of cholesterol called a lipid profile. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that an HDL level higher than 40 mg/dL is ideal. PubMed Health adds that an HDL level of 60 mg/dL or higher helps protect your body from heart disease. If your HDL level is lower than 40 mg/dL, your risk for heart disease increases.
Healthy Lifestyle Tips
If you want healthier cholesterol levels, you need to maintain a healthy body weight, avoid a fatty diet, eat healthy foods, avoid smoking and exercise regularly. PubMed Health states that regular exercise increases HDL levels. Therefore, you should try to exercise 30 minutes per day most days of the week. Fatty foods cause increases in bad cholesterol and should be avoided, especially foods high in saturated and trans fat. Instead, eat unsaturated fat from fruits, vegetables and fish. These are healthy forms of fat and can decrease your bad cholesterol levels. Engaging in these healthy lifestyle tips can help keep your cholesterol levels in the healthy range.
Considerations
The bottom line on cholesterol and cardiovascular risk is that if you keep your total cholesterol low and increase your HDL cholesterol, you can lower your risk. The Harvard School of Public Health recommends that you get your cholesterol levels checked every five years if you are over the age of 18. If you do not know your cholesterol levels, talk with you doctor about getting an HDL cholesterol test or a full lipid profile.
