What is HDL Cholesterol?

What is HDL Cholesterol? 

HDL cholesterol, which is also named as good cholesterol, is a protein that leads to severe health problems when the level is decreased. While HDL cholesterol is responsible for production of certain proteins in a healthy body and the synthesis of vitamin D, it also helps to prevent heart diseases. Therefore, HDL cholesterol level must be high.

Molecules, described as HDL cholesterol, are in charge of carrying the bad cholesterol in the vessels to the liver. By this way, there occurs no plaque formation in the vessels and thus arterial stiffness and blockage problems are prevented.

Once there is a decrease in HDL cholesterol level, there occur certain problems in the overall health status of the individuals. The following are the risk factors for reduced HDL level:

• Obesity or being over the ideal weight
• Smoking
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Genetic factors
• Certain medications
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Unhealthy nutrition

Low level of High Density Lipoprotein (HDL cholesterol) results in development of certain problems in the overall health status, internal organs and the cardiovascular system. Therefore, the HDL level must be over the normal values. Improving the quality of life is a priority by modifying the lifestyle and quitting bad habits.

How to elevate the HDL Cholesterol?

To elevate your HDL cholesterol level, you should;

• quit smoking,
• avoid alcohol consumption,
• avoid food with high fat content,
• avoid fatty fish and egg yolk,
• regularly exercise,
• minimize sugar intake and
• keep your ideal weight.

Which diseases are caused by low HDL cholesterol?

HDL cholesterol is mainly important for the cardiovascular health. Therefore, it should always be kept at normal levels. Otherwise, bad cholesterol level in blood will increase, plaques will develop in the vessels and arterial stiffness will occur.