Lower CholesterolDo I need to be concerned about high HDL levels?
My LDL is 50, my HDL is 160, and my triglycerides are 90. Do I need to be concerned about my high HDL levels?
A high level of HDL is a good thing, and it reduces your heart disease risk.
The above question is one I recently answered for a visitor to The Health Central Network. I thought readers of this blog may be interested in the answer as well, so here it is.
HDL is the good cholesterol and does not contribute to arterial plaque that leads to heart disease. HDL actually does the opposite and reduces the plaque lining your artery walls. A high level is a good thing and reduces your heart disease risk. If taking medications, speak with your doctor to double check whether your medication is playing a role.
Now, we are learning that there are two different types of HDL molecules, and of course one is “good” and the other “bad.” The only way to know which type of HDL you have and your levels is to get an expanded lipid profile. Consult with your doctor to learn your options.
Eight steps to lower your cholesterol
All the best,
Lisa Nelson, RD
Recommended resource
Where I send people for supplements
Food first, always. When a supplement is worth considering, the front of the bottle is marketing and the supplement facts panel is the actual content. Two bottles at the same price can differ by half in what they deliver.
My dispensary carries practitioner-grade products, most of which aren’t sold direct to consumers, with the reasoning behind each one.
I may earn a commission on dispensary orders.