What is the normal HDL cholesterol range?

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is often referred to as "good cholesterol" because of its role in transporting cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it can be processed and eliminated. A normal HDL cholesterol range is typically considered to be between 40 to 60 mg/dL.

An HDL level of 40 mg/dL is considered the minimum for men, while for women, a level below 50 mg/dL also raises health concerns. Levels above 60 mg/dL are generally considered protective against cardiovascular disease, making the target range of 40-60 optimal in many clinical guidelines. This delineation of HDL levels is critical in assessing cardiovascular health and risks, as higher HDL levels are linked to reduced risks of heart disease.

The selected range of 40-60 is aligned with established guidelines and represents a balance between lower and higher levels, emphasizing the protective role of HDL in heart health.