Know Your Blood Parameter : HDL Cholesterol

1. Parameter Name 

   High-Density Lipoprotein - HDL Cholesterol

   
   

2. Test Type 

   Blood

   
   

3. Normal Range 

   • Men: > 40 mg/dL 

   • Women: > 50 mg/dL 

   • Optimal: ≥ 60 mg/dL (cardioprotective)

   
   

4. High Levels Indicate 

   Generally considered protective. However, very high levels (> 100 mg/dL) may rarely be linked to genetic factors or dysfunction.

   
   

5. Low Levels Indicate

   Increased risk of heart disease, often due to sedentary lifestyle, smoking, obesity, or metabolic syndrome.

   
   

6. Why It's Tested 

   Known as "good cholesterol"; helps remove LDL cholesterol from arteries.

   
   

7. Associated Symptoms (if abnormal) 

   Usually asymptomatic; low HDL is a silent risk factor for heart disease.

   
   

8. What To Do If Abnormal 

   Encourage aerobic exercise, weight loss, smoking cessation, and dietary improvements.

   
   

9. Common Conditions Related 

   Metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease.

   
   

10. Nutrition or Lifestyle Connection 

    Increase physical activity, healthy fats (olive oil, nuts), stop smoking, limit sugar and refined carbs.

    
    

11. References (APA Format) 

    Mayo Clinic. (2023). HDL cholesterol: How to boost it. American Heart Association. (2023). HDL: The "good" cholesterol. MedlinePlus. (2023). HDL Cholesterol.