Desirable in high levels. They are thought to remove cholesterol deposited in the cells and carry it away. It is known that HDL levels are raised by exercise and weight loss. There are no foods that are known to raise HDL levels in humans. Low HDL levels (35 mg/dl) are associated with increased risk for CAD. A level 60 mg/dl is considered protective against CAD.

This is known as the "good" cholesterol, and is generated by the liver. HDL transports cholesterol and fats to your liver from your arteries. In the liver, the fats can be broken down or recycled for your body to use. If you have high levels of HDL, chances are your heart is healthy, since the cholesterol is being effectively transported rather than being left in your blood, where it can cause a hardening of the arteries. If you have too low levels of HDL, you may be putting your heart at risk.

High density lipoprotein, also known as HDL, is considered the "good" cholesterol. HDL is produced by the liver to carry cholesterol and other lipids (fats) from tissues and organs back to the liver for recycling or degradation. High levels of HDL are a good indicator of a healthy heart, because less cholesterol is available in your blood to attach to blood vessels and cause plaque formation.