HDL cholesterol
Low HDL is a risk factor (but not a treatment target; very high is not necessarily better) — ESC/EAS.
| Rating | Range | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Talk to a doctor | below 1 mmol/L | |
| Worth improving | 1 – 1.2 mmol/L | |
| Good | 1.2 mmol/L and above | HDL in the favourable range. |
This marker also has 2 age- or sex-specific range sets in the app — the table shows the general one.
Why it matters
Low HDL is a risk factor (but not a treatment target; very high is not necessarily better) — ESC/EAS.
If it’s low
A low HDL often accompanies insulin resistance and high triglycerides — a sign of metabolic imbalance.
If it’s high
A high HDL is mostly favorable. A very high value is rarely additionally protective — it is more important to lower the harmful particles (LDL/ApoB).
What to do
To raise a low HDL: regular aerobic exercise, quitting smoking, weight loss, controlled triglycerides. The change is gradual.
When to see a doctor
A very low HDL with high triglycerides (metabolic syndrome)
Read together with
Triglycerides · Fasting glucose · LDL cholesterol
Part of the guide: Cholesterol & lipids →
Articles about this marker
- Blood biomarkers of metabolic health: what to measure and whyMetabolic health
- Blood test reference values — table by test for adultsReading your report
- Cholesterol, LDL and ApoB: what really counts and how to lower itMarker explained
- Triglycerides and HDL: what they mean and how to improve themMarker explained
This content is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your results.
Your number, not the average
Upload your report: we rate your exact value for your age and sex, show the source, and tell you what to do next.