HDL Cholesterol

What is HDL Cholesterol?

Often called 'good' cholesterol; it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.

HDL carries cholesterol from the arteries back to the liver for removal, so higher levels are generally linked to lower cardiovascular risk. 'Low' HDL is defined differently by sex — under 40 mg/dL for men and under 50 mg/dL for women is considered a risk factor. Diet, exercise, not smoking, and healthy weight all support higher HDL.

Tests often checked alongside this

• ApoA1 — reflects HDL particle number and function beyond just cholesterol content
• LDL and Total Cholesterol — completes the full lipid picture
• Triglycerides — often reviewed together since the two often move in opposite directions

How this can show up in how you look and feel

• HDL cholesterol typically produces no noticeable symptoms or visible signs
• This is exactly why it's tested rather than felt
• There are no known visible signs even at very low or high extremes

What can affect this marker

• Physical activity levels
• Smoking status
• Diet and body weight
• Genetics and family history

What to track over time

• Your trend across repeat tests
• Alongside your full lipid panel
• Response to exercise or diet changes
• Overall cardiovascular risk factors

What to ask your doctor

• Is my level protective enough?
• What lifestyle changes would help most?
• How does this factor into my heart risk?
• Should I retest after changes?

This glossary entry is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our Terms of Use.