The HDL cholesterol level is measured during a lipid balance to allow cholesterol analysis. HDL cholesterol is a lipoprotein called “good cholesterol” because it allows excess cholesterol to be captured and transported to the liver for elimination.

What is HDL cholesterol?

HDL cholesterol, also written HDL-cholesterol, is a high density lipoprotein that helps transport cholesterol throughout the body.

Why is it called “good cholesterol”?

HDL cholesterol has the ability to capture excess cholesterol and then transport it to the liver for elimination. It is for this reason that HDL cholesterol is often referred to as “good cholesterol”, in opposition to LDL cholesterol which is itself considered “bad cholesterol”.

What are the normal values ​​for HDL cholesterol?

HDL cholesterol is generally considered normal when it is understood:

• between 0,4 g / L and 0,6 g / L in adult men;
• between 0,5 g / L and 0,6 g / L in adult women.

However, these reference values ​​may vary depending on the medical analysis laboratories and many parameters including age and medical history. To find out more, you should seek advice from your doctor.

The HDL cholesterol level is one of the parameters studied to analyze the total cholesterol level in the body.

Analysis of total cholesterol levels can prevent or diagnose:

• hypocholesterolemia, which corresponds to a deficiency in cholesterol;
• hypercholesterolemia, which refers to excess cholesterol.

Although it is an essential nutrient for the proper functioning of the body, cholesterol is a lipid, the excess of which constitutes a pathological risk factor. In excess, cholesterol gradually builds up in the walls of the arteries. This deposition of lipids can lead to the formation of an atheromatous plaque characteristic of atherosclerosis. This disease of the arteries can cause complications such as high blood pressure, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident (stroke) or arteritis obliterans of the lower limbs (PADI).

The HDL cholesterol assay is performed as part of a lipid balance. Carried out in a medical analysis laboratory, the latter requires a venous blood sample. This blood test is usually taken at the bend of the elbow.

Once collected, the blood sample is then analyzed to measure:

• HDL cholesterol levels;
• LDL cholesterol levels;
• total cholesterol level;
• triglyceride levels.

Participating in the transport of cholesterol within the body, HDL cholesterol has a rate that varies according to food intake. This is why it is recommended to carry out the measurement of an HDL cholesterol level on an empty stomach, preferably for at least 12 hours. Before a lipid assessment, it is also advisable not to drink alcohol 48 hours before the blood test.

The HDL cholesterol level is studied with regard to the other values ​​obtained during a lipid balance. In general, the balance sheet is considered normal when:

• the total cholesterol level is less than 2 g / L;
• LDL cholesterol is less than 1,6 g / L;
• HDL cholesterol level is greater than 0,4 g / L;
• the triglyceride level is less than 1,5 g / L.

These normal values ​​are given for information only. They vary according to different parameters including gender, age and medical history. For a personalized analysis of the lipid balance, you should contact your doctor.

Interpretation of low HDL cholesterol

A low HDL cholesterol level, less than 0,4 g / L, is often a sign of hypocholesterolemia, i.e. cholesterol deficiency. Rare, this lack of cholesterol can be linked to:

• a genetic abnormality;
• undernutrition;
• cholesterol malabsorption;
• a pathology such as cancer;
• a depressive state.

Interpretation of high HDL cholesterol

A high HDL cholesterol level, greater than 0,6 g / L, is perceived as a positive value. According to the researchers, this high rate could be associated with a cardioprotective effect.

An elevated HDL cholesterol level must nevertheless be analyzed with regard to the other results of the lipid balance. In addition, this high rate can be explained by the taking of certain drugs including lipid-lowering drugs.