HDL Cholesterol
Also called: good cholesterol
The 'good' cholesterol that helps clear excess cholesterol from your blood.
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) carries cholesterol away from arteries and back to the liver, where it's broken down. Higher HDL is generally protective against heart disease. Most adults want HDL above 40 mg/dL (men) or 50 mg/dL (women).
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD
MD · Board-Certified, Internal Medicine · Last reviewed June 2026