Know More About This Test

HDL cholesterol, known as "good cholesterol," helps remove excess cholesterol from arteries and transport it to the liver for elimination. Higher HDL levels protect against heart disease and stroke.

Unlike LDL, low HDL is a significant cardiovascular risk factor even if total cholesterol appears normal.

Why Is This Test Recommended?

This test is recommended to:

• Assess heart disease risk

• Monitor lipid therapy effectiveness

• Evaluate lifestyle impact on cholesterol

• Screen individuals with family history of heart disease

• Guide preventive cardiovascular care

Understanding HDL Cholesterol

Higher HDL levels are protective against cardiovascular disease, while low HDL levels increase risk. HDL acts as a scavenger, collecting excess cholesterol from blood vessels and tissues.

Symptoms or Conditions That May Require This Test

Usually asymptomatic. HDL testing is typically part of routine screening or cardiovascular risk assessment.

Why Do I Need This Test?

To understand your cardiovascular protection level and identify if you need interventions to improve heart health.

How Do I Prepare for the Test?

Fasting for 9–12 hours is required. Avoid alcohol consumption before the test.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm.

What Happens After the Test?

Results are reviewed alongside your complete lipid profile to assess overall cardiovascular risk.

When Should I Consult a Doctor?

If HDL levels are low despite lifestyle changes, or if you have additional cardiovascular risk factors.

Risks Associated With This Test

Minimal risk related to blood draw only.

Lifestyle Tips to Increase HDL

• Engage in regular aerobic exercise

• Include healthy fats from nuts, avocados, and olive oil

• Quit smoking

• Maintain healthy weight

• Limit refined carbohydrates and trans fats

What Does This Test Measure?

The test measures HDL cholesterol, the protective cholesterol fraction that helps prevent arterial plaque buildup.

What Do the Results Mean?

• Low: <40 mg/dL (men), <50 mg/dL (women) – Increased cardiovascular risk

• Protective: ≥60 mg/dL – Reduces heart disease risk

What Should I Do If Results Are Abnormal?

Lifestyle changes including diet modification and exercise are primary interventions. Medications may be required in some cases based on overall cardiovascular risk.

Factors Affecting Results

Genetics, smoking, physical inactivity, obesity, certain medications, and metabolic conditions.

HDL vs LDL

HDL protects by removing cholesterol from arteries; LDL contributes to arterial plaque formation and cardiovascular disease.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is high HDL always good?
Generally, yes; higher HDL levels are protective against heart disease, though extremely high levels may rarely indicate other conditions requiring evaluation.

Can diet raise HDL?
Yes, consuming healthy fats, omega-3 fatty acids, and reducing refined carbohydrates can modestly increase HDL levels.

Does exercise help?
Strongly; regular aerobic exercise is one of the most effective ways to raise HDL cholesterol naturally.

Is fasting required?
Yes, fasting for 9–12 hours is required for accurate HDL measurement as part of a complete lipid profile.

Can medicines raise HDL?
Limited effect; while some medications like niacin can increase HDL, lifestyle changes remain the primary approach for HDL improvement.