In terms of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), what is the desired value range for health?

The desired range for high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is considered beneficial for overall cardiovascular health, with values above 60 mg/mL indicating a lower risk of heart disease. HDL is often referred to as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream and transports them to the liver for excretion or re-utilization.

Having HDL levels greater than 60 mg/mL is associated with an inverse relationship to cardiovascular risk, meaning that higher levels contribute positively to heart health. HDL helps to prevent the buildup of plaque in arteries, thus playing a protective role against atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular complications.

In contrast, levels below 40 mg/mL are generally considered a risk factor for heart disease. The range of 40-50 mg/mL is still suboptimal and doesn't provide the same protective benefits. Therefore, aiming for HDL levels above 60 mg/mL is ideal for reducing health risks related to cholesterol and heart disease.