There are two types of cholesterol, the waxy substance found in your blood. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is considered “bad” cholesterol because it can build up inside your arteries and lead to heart attacks and strokes. The high-density lipoprotein (HDL) type is often called “good cholesterol” because it helps your body get rid of excess LDL cholesterol.
A healthy HDL cholesterol range is 40 mg per deciliter of blood and higher for men and more than or equal to 50 mg/dL for women.
You can determine your HDL cholesterol levels by getting a lipid profile test at your GP. Your doctor will either take a blood sample or do a prick test and carry out a few measurements.
These are:
- Total cholesterol
- LDL cholesterol
- HDL cholesterol
- Triglycerides
After taking a lipid profile test, your GP can use the information to carry out a 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk assessment. This will allow them to calculate the risk of you developing heart problems within the next 10 years.
How to increase HDL cholesterol?
You can increase your HDL cholesterol levels by making healthy lifestyle choices.
These can include:
- Eating a balanced diet
- Losing weight
- Exercising regularly
- Avoiding or quitting smoking
- Reducing alcohol consumption
- There are also medications your doctor can prescribe if your HDL cholesterol is low.
