HDL cholesterol is the “good” cholesterol that helps carry extra cholesterol away, supporting heart health.
HDL cholesterol is often called the good cholesterol. It carries excess cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it is removed.
Because it helps clear cholesterol from the bloodstream, higher HDL is generally linked with better heart health.
Low HDL is associated with a higher risk of heart attack and stroke, and it often goes along with excess weight, inactivity, smoking, and high blood sugar. Raising it through exercise and not smoking can help.
Higher HDL has long been seen as protective, though very high levels do not add extra benefit. HDL is most useful read alongside LDL and triglycerides rather than on its own.
Aniva reads your result against research-backed ranges, not just the lab's wide normal. The reference shown below is specific to this biomarker.
| Group | HDL cholesterol (SI) |
| Men (low if below) | below 1.0 mmol/L is low |
| Women (low if below) | below 1.3 mmol/L is low |
| Protective | above ~1.5 mmol/L |
Ranges are guidance only. For HDL, higher is generally better, the opposite of LDL. To convert, 1 mmol/L is about 38.7 mg/dL. Read against your own lab's interval.
HDL changes little with fasting, but recent illness, pregnancy, heavy alcohol, and some medicines can shift it. Smoking and inactivity lower it, while regular exercise raises it. It is best read in the context of the whole lipid panel.
Read as part of a full lipid panel with LDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. The total cholesterol to HDL ratio is a useful summary.
What does my HDL cholesterol result mean? Higher HDL often reflects a more favorable lipid profile. Lower HDL suggests higher long-term heart risk, but results should be viewed with other markers.
Do I need to fast for this test? No. Fasting is usually not needed for HDL. If triglycerides are high or results are unclear, your clinician may request a fasting recheck.
What can affect HDL levels? Alcohol, smoking, exercise, pregnancy, illness, and some medicines or supplements can change levels. Tell your clinician about all drugs and products you use.
How often should I test HDL? Testing frequency depends on your age, risk, and whether you are on treatment. Many people check it as part of periodic lipid panels.
How long do results take? Results are usually ready in about 7 days.
What should I discuss with my clinician? Ask how HDL fits with LDL, apolipoprotein B, triglycerides, your family history, and lifestyle, and whether any changes or follow-up are needed.
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