Understanding HDL Cholesterol: The 'Good' Cholesterol and Its Importance

Your total cholesterol count is composed of several factors, including your low-density lipoproteins (LDL), or "unhealthy" cholesterol; very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), a very dangerous form of LDL; and high-density lipoproteins (HDL), the "healthy" cholesterol.

Definition

• Your HDL is the good cholesterol because it transports cholesterol through your bloodstream to your liver for disposal.

Significance

• HDL is composed of a lot of protein instead of a lot of fat. It sucks up excess cholesterol and contains antioxidant materials that combat LDL.

Numbers

• You want your HDL to be high and your LDL to be low. A healthy HDL, according to the National Cholesterol Education Program, should be at 60 mg/dL or above.

Exercise

• A great way to boost your HDL is through aerobic exercise. Thirty minutes to one hour per day of exercise can boost your HDL levels.

Other Treatments

• Quitting smoking, consuming the proper amounts of fiber and mono-unsaturated fats and moderate alcohol consumption are other ways to raise your HDL.