Lipids are carried in bloodstream in complexes with protein particles forming
lipoproteins.
There are several classes of
lipoproteins.
High Density Lipoprotein (
HDL) is a class of blood lipoproteins.
Epidemiological studies show that high concentrations of HDL (over 60 mg%)
have protective value against cardiovascular diseases (ischemic stroke,
myocardial infarct etc.) and low concentrations of HDL (below 35mg%) are a positive
risk factor for these diseases, especially for women.
The American Heart Association provides a set of guidelines for fasting HDL levels and risk for heart disease.
- Less than 40 mg/dL
- Low HDL cholesterol, hightened risk for heart disease
- 40 to 59 mg/dL
- Medium HDL level
- 60 mg/dL and above
- High HDL level, optimal condition considered protective against heart disease
See also: cholesterol, Low density lipoprotein.