❤️ Lipid Panel

HDL: What It Means for Your Health

HDL cholesterol is called "good" cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from artery walls and transports it back to the liver for disposal — a process called reverse cholesterol transport. Higher HDL levels are associated with lower cardiovascular risk. HDL also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that protect blood vessel walls.

Full Name
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol
Normal Range
40–100 mg/dL
Also Known As
HDL Cholesterol, HDL-C

Reference Range

LowNormal: 40–100 mg/dLHigh

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories, age groups, and sexes. The values shown are general adult reference ranges. Always compare your results to the specific range provided by your testing laboratory.

What Is HDL?

HDL cholesterol is called "good" cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from artery walls and transports it back to the liver for disposal — a process called reverse cholesterol transport. Higher HDL levels are associated with lower cardiovascular risk. HDL also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that protect blood vessel walls.

Commonly included in:

Lipid PanelCardiovascular Risk Panel

What Does High HDL Mean?

Above 100 mg/dL

High HDL (above 60 mg/dL) is generally protective against heart disease. Very high HDL (above 100 mg/dL) is usually not harmful and may be genetic. However, some research suggests that extremely elevated HDL in certain genetic variants may paradoxically increase cardiovascular risk, though this is uncommon.

What Does Low HDL Mean?

Below 40 mg/dL

Low HDL (below 40 mg/dL for men, below 50 mg/dL for women) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Causes include sedentary lifestyle, smoking, obesity, type 2 diabetes, high-triglyceride diet, and certain medications (beta-blockers, anabolic steroids). Regular aerobic exercise is the most effective way to raise HDL.

Related Biomarkers in Lipid Panel

Total Cholesterol
Total amount of cholesterol in your blood.
Range: 0–200 mg/dL
LDL
"Bad" cholesterol that builds up in artery walls.
Range: 0–130 mg/dL
Triglycerides
Main type of fat stored and circulated in your blood.
Range: 0–150 mg/dL

Track Your HDL Over Time

Upload your blood test results to Hemoly and see how your HDL levels change over time. Get trend analysis, educational insights, and a personal health timeline.

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Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for interpretation of your blood test results and before making any health decisions.