Whereas low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is referred to as "bad cholesterol" because it causes clogged arteries.
A healthy person has a high level of HDL cholesterol and lower LDL levels.
measurement
HDL and LDL cholesterol is measured in milligrams per deciliter of blood, or mg / dL. Both types of cholesterol was measured using a tool called a lipid panel.
three Figures
In addition to measuring HDL and LDL, lipid panel also measured triglyceride levels.
The measurement results are usually higher LDL than HDL. Combined measurement of LDL and total cholesterol called HDL.
Normal levels of HDL
Mayo Clinic defines normal HDL levels as follows:
- Below 40 mg / dL is considered low (bad) for men
- Below 50 mg / dL is considered low (bad) for women.
- 50 to 59 mg / dL is considered moderate.
- Above 60 mg / dL is considered good.
ratio
In addition to knowing the normal levels of HDL, which is also useful measure is the ratio of cholesterol.
If someone has a LDL 200 mg / dL and HDL 50 mg / dL, the LDL to HDL ratio is 4:1.
Mayo Clinic recommend everyone keep the ratio of LDL / HDL below 5:1 to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Generally, it is easier to reduce the amount of LDL compared with diet or drugs raise HDL levels.
So instead of raising HDL levels, it is recommended to fix the value of the ratio by lowering LDL.