HDL-Cholesterol
Lipid
Type:
Known as "good" cholesterol, removes excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and does not cause atherosclerosis like LDL.
HDL absorbs excess cholesterol and transports it to the liver, where it is broken down and eliminated from the body, thus helping to prevent vascular disease.
Primary Function:
Normal Values:
>1.0 mmol/L
Pathological Values:
<1.0 mmol/L
Symptoms/Pathology in Deficiency:
Increased heart disease risk
Symptoms/Pathology in Increase:
Higher levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of heart attack and stroke.
Dietary Sources:
Fish, olive oil, Plant-based fats, such as those in walnuts and avocados, contain unsaturated fats that boost HDL.
