The Lipid Triad
Low HDL levels tend to occur in association with the presence of small, dense LDL particles (the worst type) and high levels of triglycerides. The relationship among these three types of lipids is known as the “lipid triad.” Low HDL levels also tend to occur in conjunction with metabolic problems associated with insulin resistance. Many people who have the lipid triad also have Type 2 diabetes.
Several factors can lead to low HDL cholesterol levels. Many are variables related to lifestyle factors, and these can be changed by adopting healthy habits. These factors include high triglycerides; excess weight; lack of physical activity; cigarette smoking; very high carbohydrate intake levels (more than 60 percent of total calories per day); drugs such as beta-blockers, anabolic steroids, or progestational agents; and heredity.
Approximately 50 percent of people who have low HDL levels have a genetic basis for their condition. Some of these people have a type of low HDL cholesterol known as “isolated low HDL,” so called because it does, not appear as part of the lipid triad. The other 50 percent of people, however, can change their HDL levels by improving their lifestyle habits. It’s easy to see why making an effort to eat more healthfully and to be active on a regular basis is truly worth your time and energy.
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