Cholesterol: The Good and the Bad

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as "good cholesterol" because it helps remove "bad cholesterol" from the body. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is bad because it blocks arteries, reducing blood flow in the heart. Ideally, HDL levels should be high and LDL levels should be low.

HDL Levels

HDL levels depend almost entirely on lifestyle and diet. Factors that lead to low HDL levels include excessively sedentary lifestyles, obesity and smoking. Switching to a more healthy diet, losing weight, quitting smoking and proper exercise can help raise HDL levels.

Omega 3 and HDL

Omega-3 promotes high HDL levels in the body. A Mediterranean diet, including fresh fruits and vegetables, garlic, whole grains, fish and olive oil typically have high levels of omega-3. People who substitute fish for meat regularly are likely to have higher levels of HDL as fish have omega-3 fatty acids.

Too Much Omega 3

In some cases, consuming too much omega-3 fatty oils can cause fishy body odor or fishy breath. Fish oil may also cause the thinning of blood, so people who take blood thinning medication should consult a doctor before taking fish oil supplements.

Too Little Omega 3

A diet lacking in Omega 3 can cause heart problems, moods swings or depression, fatigue, dry skin and poor circulation.

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Omega 3 Side Effects

What is HDL?