Can low cholesterol be a major problem? The answer is a resounding yes when it refers to HDL, the good cholesterol.

Low levels of HDL (good) cholesterol present a major risk factor in development of heart disease. Recent, and older studies, confirm that low levels of HDL add to risk factors and are accurate in predicting coronary heart disease. Conversely, high levels of HDL add protection against heart attacks.

A high level of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood stream is a major factor in heart health and leads to heart disease if not treated. Excess LDL is deposited in the wall of the artery as plaque, leading to coronary atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries

Sustaining a healthy level of HDL (good) cholesterol is just as critical in preserving a healthy heart. HDL is the cholesterol that transports excess cholesterol back to the liver where it can be disposed of in the bile. This function makes it essential to the body's overall management of cholesterol.

HDL levels: Higher is better

Removal of excess cholesterol by HDL is critical because it helps to prevent plaque build up in the arteries. HDL works as a helper in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels in helping the body dump' excess cholesterol.

Healthy levels of HDL are established as 40 to 50mg/dL for men and 50 to 60 mg/dL for women.

Heart Study

Levels of HDL are indicators for risk of heart disease. A Farmington Heart Study found that men and women with low levels of HDL had 8 times the risk of coronary heart disease!

People with high HDL had a marked reduction in risk factor. This study showed that men and women with high levels of HDL of 65 mg/dL or above have a very low risk for heart disease.

A twelve-year follow up accurately predicted the incidence of heart disease at a rate of 60 to 70% of those with low levels of HDL.

The lowest total levels of cholesterol can predict the risk of heart attacks even if the bad cholesterol, LDL is within desirable limits. A test called a Lipid panel can measure the total HDL, (high density lipoproteins) LDL, (low density proteins) and VLDL, (very low density lipoproteins).

Low levels of HDL are often treated with niacin or fibrates in addition to statins. Both niacin and fibrates are successful in raising the HDL promoting higher protection and reducing risks of heart disease and stroke.

Sources:
http://Americanheart.org
http://howstuffworks.com

Learn more about this author, Mona Gallagher.
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