HDL Cholesterol: The Good Cholesterol
What is HDL Cholesterol?
HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is known as the "good cholesterol" because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your body. It does this by picking up excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and taking it back to your liver, where it is broken down and removed from your body.
Benefits of High HDL Cholesterol Levels
Having high HDL cholesterol levels has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. This is because HDL helps prevent the buildup of plaque in your arteries, which can lead to heart attack and stroke. Additionally, high HDL cholesterol levels may also help protect against other health problems, such as type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.
Causes of High HDL Levels
There are a few things that can push your HDL level above 60 mg/dL, including:
- Exercise
- Weight loss
- Eating a healthy diet
- Taking certain medications
- Having certain genetic factors
Of these factors, exercise is the most effective way to raise your HDL cholesterol levels. Regular exercise has been shown to increase HDL levels by up to 10 mg/dL.
Optimal HDL Cholesterol Levels
Typically, doctors recommend an HDL level of 60 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood or higher. However, some experts believe that an optimal HDL level may be even higher, around 80 mg/dL.
How to Increase HDL Cholesterol Levels
If your HDL cholesterol levels are low, there are a few things you can do to increase them:
- Get regular exercise
- Lose weight
- Eat a healthy diet
- Take certain medications
- Talk to your doctor about genetic testing
By making these lifestyle changes, you can improve your HDL cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease and other health problems.
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