High Density Lipoproteins (HDL)

High density lipoproteins (HDL): the "good" cholesterol. HDL carry cholesterol in the blood from other parts of the body back to the liver, which leads to its removal from the body. So HDL help keep cholesterol from building up in the walls of the arteries.

HDL-Cholesterol Levels
Less than 40 mg/dL	A major risk factor for heart disease
40 to 59 mg/dL	The higher your HDL, the better
60 mg/dL and above	An HDL of 60 mg/dL and above is considered protective against heart disease

Note: These categories apply to adults age 20 and above.

Resource:
National Health, Lung and Blood Institute