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The Curious Bag
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HDL, or high density lipoprotein, is referred to as good cholesterol because high levels of HDL appear to protect against heart disease, according to the American Heart Association.
Amount
About one-fourth to one-third of blood cholesterol is carried by HDL. HDL, along with low density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides and another type of cholesterol called Lp(a), make up total cholesterol count.
Normal HDL
Normal HDL levels fall between 40 and 60 mg/dL.
High HDL
HDL levels greater than 60 mg/dL are considered high, according to the American Heart Association. The higher the level, the better, experts say.
Low HDL
Low levels of HDL (below 40 mg/dL) increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, according to the heart association.
Good Cholesterol
Experts believe HDL carries cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it's broken down and eliminated, said the American Heart Association. Experts also believe HDL removes excess cholesterol from arterial plaque, slowing its buildup.
Other Effects
HDL may have more beneficial effects on your heart and blood vessels, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-clotting effects, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Source:
American Heart Association: LDL and HDL Cholesterol: What's Bad and What's Good?
Mayo Clinic: High blood cholesterol
More Information:
American Heart Association: What Your Cholesterol Levels Mean
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