HDL Cholesterol

Measured in mg/dL

The cholesterol carried by HDL particles, often described as protective — though a higher number isn't automatically better.

What it is

HDL cholesterol measures the cholesterol carried by high-density lipoprotein particles, which help move cholesterol away from tissues and back to the liver. Lower HDL has been associated with higher cardiovascular risk in large population studies, but the relationship isn't a simple 'more is better' — very high HDL hasn't been shown to be protective, and treatments that raise HDL haven't reliably reduced risk. It's most meaningful viewed as part of the whole lipid panel and alongside your other risk factors, rather than as a score on its own.

Typical range

  • Maleover 40 mg/dL
  • Femaleover 50 mg/dL

Source · AHA/NHLBI (2005)

Reference ranges vary between laboratories, and what is normal for you depends on your own history. Your own lab’s range is the one printed on your report.

Worth asking your clinician

  • How much does my HDL number actually change the overall risk picture for me?
  • Are there things about my health or history that could be affecting my HDL result?
  • Is my HDL something worth tracking, or more useful just as context for the rest of my panel?