-
While the causes of high HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, are not thoroughly understood, there appear to be a number of factors, such as genetics, alcohol use, exercise, not smoking, some medications and a few foods, according to sources such as the website eMedicine and the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition."
Good Cholesterol
Experts believe HDL carries cholesterol away from arteries and back to the liver, where it's broken down and eliminated, according to the American Heart Association. There is also evidence to suggest that HDL removes excess cholesterol, slowing the buildup of arterial plaque.
High HDL
When it comes to your level of HDL, experts say the higher the better. HDL levels greater than 60mg/dL are considered high, according to the American Heart Association.
Boosting HDL
A few small studies, including one published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," have found that orange juice, berries, onions, eggs, limited alcohol consumption, foods high in omega-3 fatty acids and a few medications can increase HDL.
Lowering LDL
Some foods have been shown to lower low-density lipoprotein, or LDL cholesterol, but they don't have an impact on HDL, according to the website eMedTV. Foods containing plant sterols, plant stanols or soluble fiber can lower cholesterol; these include kidney beans, prunes and pears.
Gender
Women are more likely to have high HDL than men because estrogen appears to increase HDL, according to MedicineNet.com.
Source:
eMedicine: High HDL Cholesterol; Vibhuti N Singh et al
More Information:
MayoClinic.com: High Blood Cholesterol--HDL cholesterol: How to boost your 'good' cholesterol
American Heart Association: What Your Cholesterol Levels Mean
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC