By Lisa M. Belisle, MD, MPH
Originally published Issue 1, Early Spring 2008, Healthy Living Connection, Healthy Living Club, Maine Medical Center

Dear Doc, 

I hear a lot about lowering my cholesterol, but my doctor recently suggested I increase my HDL (good cholesterol numbers). Can you tell me why and offer some suggestions to do this? 

—Bill, Portland, ME 

Dear Bill, 

HDL is known as “good” cholesterol because it helps the body remove other types of cholesterol. This keeps cholesterol from building up in the heart and blood vessels. The more HDL a person has, the better: more than 60mg/dL is ideal. High HDL levels tend to run in families, as does high total cholesterol. Studies have shown that people who exercise regularly have higher amounts of HDL, while people who are overweight have lower amounts. To increase HDL, start walking, swimming or engaging in some other type of aerobic activity for 30-45 minutes most days of the week. Stay interested in exercise by trying something new, such as T’ai Chi, yoga or Qigong (see the January “Monthly Dish” for classes). Or take advantage of Maine’s winter wonderland through activities such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Finally, if you smoke, it’s time to quit — smoking is related to lower HDL levels. Need help? Call the Maine Tobacco Helpline at 1-800-207- 1230. For more information on HDL, and other types of cholesterol, visit www.nhlbi.nih.gov. 

Best, 

Lisa Belisle, MD, MPH 

MaineHealth