Lipid Panel

HDL Cholesterol

Normal range ≥ 40 (higher is protective) mg/dL (≥ 1.0 mmol/L SI). Specimen: Serum.

Also known as: high-density lipoprotein, good cholesterol.

≥ 40 (higher is protective) mg/dLReference range

Reference range

This result is reported qualitatively or as a one-sided threshold rather than a two-sided numeric band.

Specimen	Serum
Conventional range	≥ 40 (higher is protective) mg/dL
SI range	≥ 1.0 mmol/L
Conversion factor	×0.0259 (conventional → SI)
Panel	Lipid Panel

Convert any HDL Cholesterol result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for HDL Cholesterol?

The standard teaching reference range for HDL Cholesterol is ≥ 40 (higher is protective) mg/dL in conventional units, or ≥ 1.0 mmol/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum.

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high HDL Cholesterol

Regular aerobic exercise
Moderate alcohol intake
Estrogen

Below the range

Common causes of a low HDL Cholesterol

Sedentary lifestyle
Smoking
Type 2 diabetes / metabolic syndrome
Obesity

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

Higher is better — a low HDL is an independent cardiac risk factor.
≥ 60 mg/dL is considered protective.

Study aid

Your notes on HDL Cholesterol

Your notes

Same panel

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