Heart, metabolismmg/dl
HDL cholesterol
Optimal
40–80 mg/dl; very high (>100) is NOT better
Why
The “good cholesterol” — yet every trial raising HDL with drugs (niacin, CETP inhibitors) failed, and genetically high HDL doesn't protect. A marker, not a target: low HDL flags insulin resistance, to be fixed through lifestyle.
How often
Yearly, as part of the lipid panel.
What moves it
Aerobic exercise (+5–10%), weight loss, quitting smoking (+10%), olive oil and nuts; sugar and trans fats lower it.
Last reviewed: 6 September 2026
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