LipidsReported in mg/dLHDL cholesterol
High-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Higher levels are the favorable direction and are associated with lower cardiovascular risk.
What it measures
HDL particles carry cholesterol back toward the liver. People with higher HDL tend to have lower rates of coronary disease, which is why this is the cholesterol number you do not want to see fall. For adults, 60 mg/dL or higher is often called desirable. Levels under about 40 mg/dL in men or 50 mg/dL in women are considered low.
Why it is on the panel
A low HDL is an independent risk marker even when LDL looks fine. Exercise, smoking cessation, and weight change move it, though usually modestly. The panel records it so the lipid story is complete.
How to read it
Read HDL against LDL and triglycerides. A common unfavorable trio is high triglycerides, low HDL, and a glucose or HbA1c that is creeping up. That pattern tracks insulin resistance more than it tracks egg yolks.
When it runs higher
A high HDL is generally favorable. Estrogen and some genetic traits raise it. Extremely high HDL is uncommon and is not, by itself, a disease. The desirable adult flag used with this panel starts at 60 mg/dL.
When it runs lower
Smoking, inactivity, excess weight, poorly controlled diabetes, and a high-triglyceride pattern lower HDL. Medicines such as anabolic steroids do too. Raising HDL with a pill has not matched the benefit of lowering LDL, so the practical focus is the whole pattern and the habits around it.
Before the draw
Fast for 12 hours beforehand, with water allowed. A recent meal raises triglycerides and can shift the rest of the lipid panel.
Same group
Other Lipids tests
How to use this page
This page explains what the measurement is for. It is educational. Your Healiam report includes the reference interval for your age and sex, and a clinician reads that result with your history, medicines, and the rest of the panel. Talk with a clinician before changing diet, supplements, or treatment because of a number on a report.
HDL
HDL is part of the full panel.
No referral or insurance required.
One preventive draw covers this measurement and the rest of the Healiam panel. CLIA-certified results come back in days.