HDL Cholesterol

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HDL Cholesterol

HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is sometimes called "good" cholesterol, because it helps move cholesterol out of the body. HDL does this by binding with cholesterol in the bloodstream and carrying it back to the liver for disposal.

A high HDL level is linked to a lower risk of heart disease.

Last Revised: August 10, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Carl Orringer, MD - Cardiology, Clinical Lipidology

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