Video:What Are HDLs?

Transcript:What Are HDLs?

Hi, I’m Laureen Wallraven, Certified Nutritional Therapist and founder of RelishedFood.com. I'm here today for About.com to answer the question: What is HDL cholesterol?

High Density Lipoproteins is Good Cholesterol

Over the years, cholesterol has garnered a reputation as something to avoid in the quest for good health. However, we now know that cholesterol, specifically HDL cholesterol, is one key to good heart health. Let’s take a closer look.

High Density Lipoproteins, or HDL cholesterol, is often referred to as “good” cholesterol. Produced in the liver, HDL basically transports fats from the blood stream to the liver where they can be broken down. High levels of HDL in a body can help to prevent plaque from forming on the walls of blood vessels and arteries, thus lowering the risk of heart disease. HDL levels in the range of 40-to-60 milligrams per deciliter is considered acceptable, while anything less than 40 milligrams per deciliter is considered low.

Exercise and Certain Food Helps Raise HDL Cholesterol Levels

If you're looking to raise your HDL levels, you should begin by focusing on your exercise routine and diet. It’s now thought that the duration of an exercise routine, as opposed to its intensity, can have the greatest effect on raising HDL levels. A 30-minute bike ride or walk each day can go a long way to getting your HDL levels where they need to be for good health.

Eating monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil, avocados, or almonds, can help to increase your HDL levels as well. Coupling these with foods that are high in soluble fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can really help to improve your HDL levels over time.

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