About HDL Large
Large HDL particles are the most functionally active subclass of HDL — they are the primary drivers of reverse cholesterol transport, removing cholesterol from artery walls and returning it to the liver for excretion. Low large HDL is more predictive of cardiovascular risk than total HDL cholesterol, because it captures the functional, not just the quantitative, aspect of HDL. Aerobic exercise, niacin, and alcohol reduction (in excess drinkers) are the most effective ways to increase large HDL particle concentration.