what is hdl

HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein, which is commonly known as the "good" cholesterol. It is a type of lipoprotein, a particle made of lipids and proteins, that circulates in the blood carrying cholesterol. What makes HDL beneficial is that it scavenges and removes harmful low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol, from the bloodstream. HDL transports this cholesterol back to the liver, where it can be broken down and removed from the body. Higher levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of heart disease because HDL helps prevent cholesterol buildup in the arteries, reducing plaque formation and protecting against heart attack and stroke. Conversely, low levels of HDL increase cardiovascular risk. In summary, HDL functions as a maintenance crew for the blood vessels, helping keep them clean and healthy by reducing cholesterol buildup and supporting overall cardiovascular health. A typical healthy range of HDL is roughly 40 to 80 mg/dL, with variations by sex and individual health status. This "good" cholesterol contrasts with LDL, which carries cholesterol to the arteries and can lead to plaque buildup and cardiovascular problems if elevated. Thus, HDL plays a crucial role in cholesterol management and heart disease prevention. If you want, I can provide more details on how to increase HDL levels or interpret cholesterol test results.