Introduction to HDL Cholesterol

This article will give you a brief introduction about HDL cholesterol, often called the good cholesterol in your body. Cholesterol is carried in the blood by particles called lipoproteins. There are two types of lipoproteins, HDL and LDL. HDL stands for high density lipoprotein. Though both HDL and LDL carry cholesterol in the body, they have different functions. The functions of high density lipoproteins are as follows.

Characteristics and functions of HDL cholesterol

? Lipoproteins carry both fat and protein. HDL cholesterol carries more protein than fat.

? HDL's travel in the bloodstream and increase in size as they pick up excess cholesterol. They are called good cholesterol because they pick up excess cholesterol in the body.

? The excess cholesterol is collected by the HDL's from various parts of the body and transported to the liver which will remove the excess cholesterol and convert it into bile fluid.

? HDL's are known as good cholesterol because they have been known to reduce the risk of heart attacks and other heart related problems by reducing cholesterol levels in the body.

? HDL's also contain certain antioxidant particles in them that prevent formation of other lipoproteins that can cause heart problems.

What is a good HDL level in the body?

The American Heart Association advices that a man will increase his chances of heart disease if the HDL cholesterol level falls below 40mg/DL. The figure for women is 50mg/DL.

What causes an unhealthy dip in HDL levels?

It is essential that you maintain a good HDL cholesterol level in your body. Foods that are rich in trans-fat will unfavorably reduce HDL levels. Smoking is also known to reduce levels to less than optimal ranges. A generally healthy lifestyle that includes exercises and a healthy diet will be enough for the average person to maintain a healthy HDL cholesterol level.

A simple blood test will be enough to detect cholesterol levels and the patient will be advised to not consume anything for about 8-9 hours before the test. If one is found to have very low HDL cholesterol levels, the doctor will usually advice them to make healthy changes to their lifestyle. When immediate rectification is needed, a doctor will prescribe medication to improve the HDL levels in the body.

Cholestrol levels are a great predictor of your heart health. Make sure you know what yours are and react accordingly.

Thomas Ajava writes for howlowercholesterol.com HowLowerCholesterol.com - learn how lower cholesterol can save your life and how to go about lowering cholesterol levels safely.