Low and high levels of high-density lipoprotein - what is the norm? What is HDL cholesterol?

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is the so-called good cholesterol. It is made up of high density lipoproteins that circulate in the peripheral blood. HDL lipoprotein is composed of fat (lipo), protein (protein) and apolipoprotein A, which, in addition to building molecules, is involved in the metabolism of the lipopprotein itself.

In the context of HDL lipoprotein, no maximum but only a minimum value is specified. According to a 2016 recommendation by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and other societies, HDL values should be > 40 mg/dl (1.0 mmol/l) in men, > 45 mg/ dl (1.2 mmol / l) in women. Other values are recommended for people with diabetes.

In addition, HDL deficiencies are associated with high intake of trans fats present in highly processed foods, low physical activity, smoking cigarettes, and a diet low in vegetable fats, and high in animal fats. They may also be caused by genetic mutations. Furthermore, a lack of HDL is a result of high consumption of trans fat products present in high-processed food, fast food and fast food, resulting from low fat intake (green fats) during long-term digestion and high body fat consumption.

According to current knowledge, high levels of HDL fraction cholesterol are desirable. Much attention is paid to protecting HDL against heart disease and vascular disease. Reducing body weight in obese people, increasing physical activity and quitting smoking. In addition, dietary changes are beneficial, such as replacing animal fats with vegetable fats.