Good cholesterol

H.D.L. cholesterol, or high-density lipoproteins (LIP-oh-pro-teens), actually carries cholesterol out of the bloodstream. It is therefore considered the 'good' cholesterol. H.D.L. cholesterol appears to protect against heart disease because it carries the smallest amount of cholesterol and the largest amount of protein of all lipoproteins. H.D.L. cholesterol removes cholesterol from artery walls to the liver for expulsion. You can increase your 'good' cholesterol levels by reducing dietary fats to no more than thirty percent of daily calories consumed. Avoid red meats, hard cheese, egg yolks, and other high fat dairy products and desserts. Avoid saturated fats, such as fried foods, dressings, high-fat snacks, pastries, chocolate, ice cream, and some candies. Instead, try foods that are baked, broiled, or steamed; low fat yogurt and other dairy products; fish or poultry; fruits and vegetables; and other items made with polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Regular exercise will also increase your H.D.L. cholesterol. For more information on cholesterol, contact a health care professional.