What is HDL?

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What is HDL?

HDL is an abbreviated term for high-density lipoprotein. In layman’s term, HDL is what most people know as ‘good cholesterol’. LDL, which is the low-density lipoprotein, is the exact opposite of HDL. If the body needs HDL in high levels, LDL must be maintained at low levels. Although HDL is just one of the five major groups of lipoproteins in the body, this article will just focus on it.

Lipoproteins function as instruments to transport cholesterol and triglycerides within the water-based bloodstream. It is calculated to be at approximately 30 percent of blood cholesterol is carried by HDL in healthy people. HDL count is done through a blood test, wherein the count reflects the amount of cholesterol present in HDL particles.

The significance of HDL is that it can get rid of cholesterol contained by the arteries. The cholesterol being taken by HDL is transported back to the liver. The liver processes the cholesterol for excretion or re-utilization. The term good cholesterol was coined due to HDL-C, which is the cholesterol carried within the HDL particles.

Observations showed that individuals with higher levels of HDL-C have fewer or no cardiovascular ailments. On the other hand, those with lower levels of HDL-C have an increased tendency to develop certain heart diseases. However, having low levels of HDL-C will not always result in developing heart diseases. Researches showed that individuals producing HDL ApoA1 Milano, a protein variant, but with low levels of HDL-C levels have low rates of cardiovascular occurrences. This is also true even if the individual have high blood cholesterol values.

Studies show that men have distinctly lower levels of HDL-C than their counterpart, women. Moreover, statistics show that men are more prone to atherosclerotic heart disease. Ischemic strokes and myocardial infarction can be prevented by maintaining a high concentration of HDL in the body. If not, there will be an increase of risk in developing atherosclerotic heart disease and this applies to both genders.

Since it is very important to maintain high levels of HDL, it is necessary to follow tips from the health experts. The very basic process in raising HDL is through proper diet and healthy lifestyle. If you have a poor diet and unhealthy lifestyle, it is time to think about changes. Lifestyle has great impact on raising or lowering your HDL. Below are some important tips to raise your HDL.
Exercise is still the best way to burn fats in the body. Getting a good aerobic workout daily will help raise your HDL.

Start your weight loss program. Exercise is not sufficient to lose weight. An individual must learn how to eat a healthy diet. Eating fiber rich food helps eliminate fats in the body.
Smoking is dangerous to your health and statistics show that smokers have a higher tendency to acquire cardiovascular disease, so quit smoking.
As part of a healthy diet, one must also learn to stay away from trans fatty acids from foods.

Alcohol is not really bad for your health. Study shows that red wine promotes good blood flow and helps eliminate cholesterol. However, alcohol intake must be taken in moderation.
Taking supplements such as fish liver oil, which is high in Omega 3 is good for promoting good cardiovascular health.

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