Is High Density Lipoprotein Good?

HDL (high-density lipoprotein), or “good” cholesterol, absorbs cholesterol and carries it back to the liver. The liver then flushes it from the body. High levels of HDL cholesterol can lower your risk for heart disease and stroke.

Is it better to have high HDL or low LDL?

If your triglycerides are high and your LDL is also high or your HDL is low, you're at risk of developing atherosclerosis. HDL: The higher this number, the better. It should be at least higher than 55 mg/dL for females and 45 mg/dL for males. LDL: The lower this number, the better.

What is a good high-density lipoprotein level?

HDL cholesterol levels greater than 60 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) are high. That's good. HDL cholesterol levels less than 40 mg/dL are low. That's not so good.