HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)

HDL cholesterol, known as "good" cholesterol, helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease. Higher levels of HDL are considered protective against heart attacks and strokes, as HDL carries cholesterol to the liver, where it is processed and removed from the body.

Raising HDL levels can be achieved through regular exercise, a diet rich in healthy fats like those from fish and nuts, and quitting smoking. Monitoring HDL levels as part of routine cholesterol checks is important for maintaining heart health.

Common Questions about HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)

What is Systole Health?

Systole Health is a group-based virtual care service that helps women improve their heart and metabolic health. We offer medical care and coaching, making it easier for you to manage conditions like high blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and heart disease.

How does group virtual care work?

Group virtual care involves up to 8 patients meeting virtually with a physician and certified health coach. These sessions focus on education, peer support, and personalized care to help you manage your health. You'll benefit from expert guidance and shared experiences with others going through similar challenges. Between sessions, you will have access to your care team and group through a secure app and platform that allows for group messaging, goal setting, and health data monitoring.

What conditions does Systole Health treat?

We specialize in managing cardiometabolic conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity. Additionally, we help patients optimize their heart health after experiencing events like a heart attack or heart failure.

What is cardiometabolic health?

Cardiometabolic health refers to the interconnection between heart health, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and excess weight. These factors are all linked, and managing them together is key to preventing heart disease, diabetes, and other serious health issues.

How long does the program last?

Our core program lasts 6 weeks, with an option for bimonthly maintenance afterward to continue supporting your long-term health goals.

What is HDL cholesterol and why is it important?

HDL, or "good" cholesterol, helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease.

How can I increase my HDL levels?

You can raise HDL levels by exercising regularly, quitting smoking, eating healthy fats like olive oil and fatty fish, and reducing refined carbohydrates.

What foods can help raise HDL cholesterol?

Foods like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), olive oil, nuts, seeds, and avocado can help boost HDL cholesterol levels.

What is the ideal HDL level?

The American Heart Association guidelines on cholesterol management do not recommend a target level for HDL cholesterol. Instead, they emphasize that the focus should be on overall cardiovascular risk rather than solely on HDL levels.

How does HDL cholesterol affect heart health?

Higher HDL levels are associated with a lower risk of heart disease because HDL helps transport cholesterol to the liver, where it’s removed from the body.