optimal number for hdl
What Are Good Levels for the HDL Cholesterol? A cholesterol test or lipid panel tells the level of HDL cholesterol. What do the numbers mean? HDL cholesterol levels greater than 60 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) are high. That's good. HDL cholesterol levels less than 40 mg/dL are low. That's not so good. In general, people with high HDL are at lower risk for heart disease. People with low HDL are at higher risk. What Can I Do if my HDL Cholesterol Level Is Low? If your HDL is low, you can take several steps to boost your HDL level and reduce your heart disease risk: Exercise.