Lever
Lifestyle
- Engage in regular aerobic exercise
- Quit smoking
- Maintain a healthy weight
Blutwerte · Marker
HDL-Cholesterin
High-Density Lipoprotein · HDL-C · HDL
Lipide & Herz-Kreislauf
- Einheit:
- mmol/L
- Abbreviation
- HDL-C
HDL-C quantifies the amount of cholesterol carried by high-density lipoproteins in the blood.
Reference Ranges
Reference
1–1.5mmol/L
1
1.3
1.8
1.5
LowNormalHigh
Reference
Optimal
Unit · mmol/LReference ranges may vary based on sex and age; generally, higher levels are considered protective.
Overview
Übersicht
High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C) is a type of cholesterol carried in the blood by high-density lipoproteins. It plays a crucial role in reverse cholesterol transport, a process where cholesterol is removed from tissues and arterial walls and transported back to the liver for excretion. Clinically, HDL-C is considered a protective factor against cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Low levels of HDL-C are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), including coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral vascular disease (PAD), and cerebrovascular disease (CCVD). In athletic performance, higher HDL-C levels are often observed in physically active individuals, potentially contributing to better cardiovascular health and longevity. However, the clinical significance of HDL-C is complex, as its protective role may not solely depend on its concentration but also on its composition and function. Researchers have observed that lifestyle changes such as exercise and dietary modifications can positively influence HDL-C levels. It is important to consider potential confounders like genetic factors, diet, and lifestyle when interpreting HDL-C levels. Time-of-day variations and fasting status do not significantly affect HDL-C measurements, making it a stable marker for routine clinical assessments.
Klinische Bedeutung
Elevated HDL-C levels are generally associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. Conversely, reduced HDL-C levels indicate an increased risk of atherosclerosis and related conditions.
Dynamics
Trend Interpretation
Rising Values
Progressively rising HDL-C values suggest improved cardiovascular health. Retest annually to monitor trends.
Falling Values
Progressively falling HDL-C values may indicate increased cardiovascular risk.
Re-test Interval
4 weeks if outside optimal range
Etiology
Causes — High & Low
Cause
Elevated Levels
- Regular physical activity
- Genetic factors
- High intake of omega-3 fatty acids
- Moderate alcohol consumption
- Use of certain medications (e.g., niacin)
Cause
Low Levels
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Obesity
- Smoking
- High carbohydrate diet
- Type 2 diabetes
Protocol
How to Optimize
Lever
Nutrition
- Increase intake of omega-3 rich foods
- Consume more fruits and vegetables
- Reduce intake of trans fats
Lever
Supplementation
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Niacin
Note:
Consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplementation, especially if taking other medications.
Testing Guidelines
✓Fasting Not Required
✓Not Time-Sensitive
Testing Frequency
Annually for healthy adults, more frequently if at risk for CVD
Interfering Factors
- Recent intense exercise
- Acute illness
Open Research Questions
Current research suggests that the relationship between HDL-C levels and cardiovascular risk is complex, with debated reference ranges and the influence of HDL composition on vascular effects. Researchers have not yet established optimal targets for HDL-C in clinical practice, particularly regarding its role in drug therapy. Additionally, unanswered clinical questions remain about the impact of lifestyle changes on HDL-C and its predictive value for cardiovascular disease in diverse populations.
45 Research Publications
1,307
Total Citations
11
Human/RCT
4.5
Avg. Influence
2021
Latest
Sort
Filter
01Top
#01
Measurement and Clinical Significance of Lipid Peroxidation as a Biomarker of Oxidative Stress: Oxidative Stress in Diabetes, Atherosclerosis, and Chronic Inflammation.
ReviewInfluence13.0
489
02Top
#02
The Triglyceride/High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) Ratio as a Risk Marker for Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiovascular Disease.
ReviewInfluence14.0
313
Researchers reviewed the association between the triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio and cardiovascular disease risk. They found that increased TG and decreased HDL-C levels are linked to metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease, suggesting that the TG/HDL-C ratio may serve as a novel risk marker.
03Top
#03
Towards a consensus definition of allostatic load: a multi-cohort, multi-system, multi-biomarker individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis.
Meta-AnalysisInfluence4.0
86
This meta-analysis aimed to define allostatic load using various biomarkers, including HDL-C. Researchers found that HDL-C was consistently associated with health outcomes, suggesting its relevance in assessing physiological stress and risk.
04
#04
Positive association between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and bone mineral density in U.S. adults: the NHANES 2011-2018.
Cross-Sectional StudyInfluence5.0
83
Researchers observed a positive relationship between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and lumbar bone mineral density (BMD) in U.S. adults aged 20-59. The study found that this association varied by sex and race, with a U-shaped curve identified for men and whites. HDL-C measurement may serve as a useful biomarker for early osteoporosis detection.
05
#05
Diagnosis and treatment of high density lipoprotein deficiency.
ReviewInfluence5.0
82
Researchers observed that low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) are significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). The study emphasizes the importance of genetic analysis in diagnosing HDL deficiency and its associated health risks.
06
#06
Hypertriglyceridemia in Obese Children and Adolescents.
HumanInfluence2.0
34
This study investigated hypertriglyceridemia in obese children and adolescents, focusing on the TG/HDL-C ratio as a marker of cardiometabolic risk. Researchers found that elevated TG levels are common in this population and recommended lifestyle modifications to manage triglyceride levels.
07
#07
Revealing the Role of High-Density Lipoprotein in Colorectal Cancer.
ReviewInfluence1.0
34
This review analyzed the role of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in colorectal cancer (CRC). Researchers found that HDL-C levels decrease in CRC patients, and emphasized the need for further studies on HDL functionality and its potential as a biomarker in CRC.
08
#08
High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol in Age-Related Ocular Diseases.
Review
33
Researchers reviewed the role of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in age-related ocular diseases, including macular degeneration and cataracts. The review highlights the limited understanding of HDL-C's specific contributions to these diseases. Epidemiological and genetic evidence is discussed to explore potential links between HDL-C and ocular health.
09
#09
HDL in Endocrine Carcinomas: Biomarker, Drug Carrier, and Potential Therapeutic.
ReviewInfluence1.0
32
This review focused on the relationship between high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and cancer, particularly in endocrine carcinomas. Researchers observed that HDL-C levels may inversely correlate with cancer risk and suggested potential therapeutic applications of synthetic HDL in cancer treatment.
10
#10
Elevated plasma intestinal fatty acid binding protein and aberrant lipid metabolism predict post-stroke depression.
UnknownInfluence1.0
23
Publication Trend
Research publications about HDL-Cholesterin over time
9totalTrack your bloodwork in PepStack
Log lab results, track trends and optimize your biomarkers over time.
Legal Disclaimer
This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Many substances listed may not be approved for human use and may be subject to drug regulation laws (e.g., AMG in Germany, FDA in the US). PepStack does not encourage the use of any substance on humans. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. Use of this information is entirely at your own risk. PepStack assumes no liability for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content provided. Full disclaimer