HDL-C
The cholesterol carried by HDL particles — often called 'good cholesterol.'
What is it
HDL cholesterol measures the cholesterol carried by high-density lipoprotein particles. HDL plays a role in reverse cholesterol transport, moving cholesterol away from artery walls.
Why it's measured
Higher HDL has been associated with cardiovascular protection in epidemiologic research, though the relationship is complex and HDL particle function matters alongside concentration.
Reference range
Standard laboratory reference
> 40 (men) / > 50 (women) mg/dL
Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.
What results may indicate
Elevated
Generally considered favorable in research, though extremely high values warrant clinical interpretation.
Lower
Has been associated with elevated cardiovascular risk in published research.
These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.
When it's measured
Part of every standard cholesterol panel.
Related markers
Common questions
HDL cholesterol measures the cholesterol carried by high-density lipoprotein particles. HDL plays a role in reverse cholesterol transport, moving cholesterol away from artery walls.
It's one of the markers used to build a fuller picture of your health. On its own it tells you very little, so it's most informative when reviewed alongside related markers.
It's measured from a standard blood draw at Quest or LabCorp. HDL Cholesterol is one of the markers included in the OPTML Apex Panel, where your results are read across systems and reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory, and a single value rarely tells the whole story. Review your result with a physician in the context of your other markers, symptoms, and history.
HDL Cholesterol is one signal among many. Answer a few quick questions and we’ll point you to the panel that fits.
HDL responds to exercise, though more modestly and more slowly than triglycerides do. Sustained aerobic training has the clearest effect; resistance training contributes mainly through changes in body composition. If you want a structured place to start, the training library lists every programme we publish by days per week and equipment.
Measured in
A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Find the right panel →This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.
OPTML offers compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide, prescribed and overseen by U.S.-licensed physicians. Compounded drug products are not approved or evaluated for safety, effectiveness, or quality by the FDA. OPTML is not associated with, endorsed by, or affiliated with the manufacturers of FDA-approved branded weight-loss medications, and does not sell or supply those branded products. Anyone interested in an FDA-approved branded medication should consult a licensed healthcare provider or pharmacist. Individual results vary; no specific result is promised, and weight management requires ongoing medical guidance.
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