Your doctor says you need to lower your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, what's often called the "bad" cholesterol. You're working hard at that goal, but now your doctor says it's important to raise your high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is known as the "good" cholesterol. It might sound like a mixed message, but this one-two punch — reducing LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL cholesterol — is a great way to lower your risk of heart disease.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance that's found in all of your cells and has several healthy functions, including helping to build your body's cells and playing a role in the production of sex hormones. It's carried through your bloodstream attached to proteins. These proteins are called lipoproteins.
The message to lower LDL cholesterol is loud and clear — but it might not be enough for people at high risk of heart disease. So doctors are beginning to turn their attention to HDL cholesterol. The evidence so far looks good that increasing HDL cholesterol reduces your risk of dying of heart disease.
Cholesterol levels are measured in milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per deciliter (dL) of blood, or millimoles (mmol) per liter (L). When it comes to HDL cholesterol, think high. Most people should aim for an HDL level of 60 mg/dL (1.6 mmol/L) or above. An HDL level below 40 mg/dL (1.0 mmol/L) increases the risk of heart disease.
For the average man, HDL cholesterol ranges from 40 to 50 mg/dL (1.0 to 1.3 mmol/L). Thanks to female sex hormones — which have a positive effect on HDL cholesterol — the average woman fares better, with HDL cholesterol ranging from 50 to 60 mg/dL (1.3 to 1.6 mmol/L). But both men and women can benefit from increasing these levels.
If you don't know your HDL level, ask your doctor for a baseline cholesterol test. If your HDL value isn't within a desirable range, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to boost your HDL cholesterol.
The problem may still be important — and worth the time spent in an emergency room to have your HDL cholesterol evaluated by a doctor.
Take care always! OIRAM