HDL Cholesterol

What it is

HDL cholesterol is often called "good" cholesterol. HDL particles carry cholesterol away from the arteries back to the liver for removal.

Why it matters

Higher HDL is associated with lower cardiovascular risk, making it a key part of any cholesterol assessment.

What high values can mean

A higher value is generally favourable, though very high levels are interpreted by a clinician in context.

What low values can mean

A lower value is associated with higher cardiovascular risk and is common with inactivity, smoking or metabolic conditions.

How to improve it

Regular aerobic exercise, quitting smoking, and replacing trans/saturated fats with unsaturated fats can raise HDL.

Food & lifestyle

Olive oil, nuts, avocado and oily fish support HDL; trans fats, excess refined carbs and smoking lower it.

Preparing for the testFasting required

Part of a lipid panel. Fasting (9–12 h) may be requested, though non-fasting samples are increasingly accepted — follow your lab.

When to talk to a doctor

Discuss a persistently low HDL with a doctor as part of your overall heart-disease risk.

Related markers

• LDL Cholesterol
• Non-HDL Cholesterol

Sources

• MedlinePlus (NIH)
• Testing.com (AACC)

Content reviewed on June 26, 2026