HDL Cholesterol

cholesterol /cho·les·ter·ol/ (kah-les´ter-ol) a eukaryotic sterol that in higher animals is the precursor of bile acids and steroid hormones and a key constituent of cell membranes. Most is synthesized by the liver and other tissues, but some is absorbed from dietary sources, with each kind transported in the plasma by specific lipoproteins. It can accumulate or deposit abnormally, as in some gallstones and in atheromas. Preparations are used as emulsfiers in pharmaceuticals.

Structure and metabolism of cholesterol.

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HDL cholesterol , high-density–lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) the serum cholesterol carried on high-density lipoproteins, approximately 20 to 30 per cent of the total.

LDL cholesterol , low-density–lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) the serum cholesterol carried on low-density lipoproteins, approximately 60 to 70 per cent of the total.

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HDL cholesterol

n.

See high-density lipoprotein.

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HDL Cholesterol

About one-third or one-fourth of all cholesterol is high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. High levels of HDL, nicknamed "good" cholesterol, decrease the risk of atherosclerosis.

Mentioned in: Atherosclerosis, Coronary Artery Disease

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Patient discussion about HDL Cholesterol.

Q. How can I increase my HDL cholesterol levels? My Doctor told me that my cholesterol levels are not good and that I should lower my LDL and higher my HDL. I understand how to lower the cholesterol, but how can I increase the HDL?

A. Here are a few things you can do in order to raise your HDL levels:
Aerobic exercise
Lose weight
Stop smoking
Cut out the trans fatty acids from your diet.
Alcohol: one or two drinks per day can significantly increase HDL levels
Increase the monounsaturated fats in your diet.
Add soluble fiber to your diet.