Is it good or bad to have high high-density lipoprotein (HDL)?
Aug 11, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
In general, whether a high level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is good or bad cannot be universally determined and should be evaluated based on individual circumstances. If experiencing any discomfort, timely medical consultation is recommended. When HDL abnormalities are detected, comprehensive judgment should be made in combination with other blood lipid indicators and overall health status. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits is important, such as engaging in moderate exercise, reducing intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption.
Generally speaking, whether high high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is good or bad cannot be universally determined; it must be evaluated based on specific circumstances. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If HDL elevation results from consistently maintaining a healthy lifestyle—such as regular exercise, balanced diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption—and no other lipid profile abnormalities or diseases are present, it is usually beneficial. In such cases, higher HDL levels more effectively remove excess cholesterol from blood vessels, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and offering protective benefits for cardiovascular health.
If the elevation in HDL is caused by liver disease or genetic factors resulting in abnormal HDL increase, and is accompanied by abnormalities in other indicators such as total cholesterol and triglycerides, it is generally not favorable. This may indicate metabolic dysfunction of the liver, with possible structural or functional abnormalities in HDL preventing it from performing its normal protective roles, and may even indirectly reflect underlying health issues.
When abnormal HDL levels are detected, a comprehensive evaluation combining other lipid profile indicators and overall health status is necessary. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, such as moderate exercise, reducing intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods, and quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, is recommended.
