What Is a Normal HDL Number?

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as "good cholesterol," as it helps to prevent plaque buildup inside arteries, while its cousin, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), causes buildup. A healthy person has high HDL levels and low LDL levels.

Measures

Cholesterol of both kinds is measured in milligrams per deciliter of blood, or mg/dL. A clinic measures both kinds when running what is called a lipid panel.

Three Numbers

A lipid panel defines three numbers: HDL, LDL, and triglycerides. LDL is normally higher than HDL, and the two combined equal the total cholesterol.

HDL Numbers

The Mayo Clinic defines HDL numbers as follows: below 40 mg/dL is poor for a man; below 50 mg/dL is poor for a woman; 50 to 59 mg/dL is better; 60 mg/dL and above is best.

Ratio

The HDL number by itself is useful, but a more useful number is the cholesterol ratio. If your LDL is 200 mg/dL and your HDL 50 mg/dL, your ratio is 4:1. Mayo Clinic advises keeping the ration below 5:1 to lower the risk of heart disease.

Moving HDL Numbers

Generally, it is easier to move the LDL number with diet or medication than to move the HDL number. So the goal is generally to achieve a better ratio, rather than a better HDL number. Most dietary and lifestyle changes that lower LDL also raise HDL, somewhat.

References

• Mayo Clinic: How Important is the Cholesterol Ratio?
• Mayo Clinic: High Blood Cholesterol
• National Institutes of Health: HDL Research Study