HDL Even More Beneficial Than Thought

February 6th, 2007

Berkeley Wellness Newsletter has just posted a useful article about high density lipoprotein (HDL–the good cholesterol). We’ve known it was a good thing for a long time; recent research suggests its role is even more extensive in beneficial ways than we thought.

It seems that HDL has an anti-inflammatory, anti-clotting action, and helps blood vessels stay young and flexible. It is also an anti-oxidant. The article suggests this health helper may be even more important than lowering total cholesterol. So drug companies are moving away from a focus on lowering LDL (statins) and researching drugs that can boost HDL.

Also, look for a surge of claims about raising HDL in over the counter medications and be skeptical. The newsletter’s prescription is the H3I Healthy Lifestyle: exercise, good nutrition, non-smoking, moderation in alcohol intake–you know the drill.

Entry Filed under: Uncategorized, Healthy Lifestyle Research, Making Choices