High-density lipoprotein (HDL) helps to eliminate the excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, so, the higher levels of HDL the lower the risk of heart disease. Therefore, HDL cholesterol is called “good” cholesterol. Lipoproteins are substances carrying cholesterol through the bloodstream to cells.

HDL removes cholesterol from the arterial wall and returns it to the liver for safe disposal via a process known as reverse cholesterol transport.