What does it mean if your HDL is low?
Having low levels of HDL cholesterol can be of more concern, as it can indicate that the person is at risk of developing heart disease. Low levels can occur due to : genetic factors. type 2 diabetes.
What causes HDL deficiency?
Mutations in the ABCA1 gene or the APOA1 gene cause familial HDL deficiency. The proteins produced from these genes work together to remove cholesterol and phospholipids from cells.
Is low HDL genetic?
Familial HDL deficiency is a rare genetic condition that causes low levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. HDL helps remove excess cholesterol and fats from your blood. People with familial HDL deficiency may develop cardiovascular disease at a relatively young age, often before age 50.
Is good HDL genetic?
Plasma levels of HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) have a strong inherited basis with heritability estimates of 40-60%. The well-established inverse relationship between plasma HDL-C levels and the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) has led to an extensive search for genetic factors influencing HDL-C concentrations.
What should I do if my HDL is low?
If your HDL is low, you can take several steps to boost your HDL level and reduce your heart disease risk:
- Exercise. Aerobic exercise for 30 to 60 minutes on most days of the week can help pump up HDL.
- Quit smoking. Tobacco smoke lowers HDL, and quitting can increase HDL levels.
- Keep a healthy weight.
What happens when your HDL is below 40?
According to the National Cholesterol Education Program, HDL levels below 40 milligrams per deciliter increase your risk of developing heart disease. Estrogen tends to boost HDL levels, so young women often have higher HDL levels than men.
What causes a sudden drop in HDL cholesterol?
A variety of factors may be among the causes of a rapid drop in HDL levels. Lack of exercise, weight gain, resumption of smoking or dietary changes frequently produce this drop.
Could too much ‘good’ HDL cholesterol be bad for Your Heart?
But new research suggests that there could be too much of a “good” thing. Very high blood levels of HDL cholesterol may actually be bad for you. The research linked it to a higher risk for heart attack, and even death, among patients who already had heart problems or who faced a higher risk of developing heart disease.
What foods cause high cholesterol?
High cholesterol foods include fast foods, liver, fatty meats, canned shrimp, desserts, eggs, whipped cream, bacon, cheese, and butter.