Causes for Low HDL Levels?

I'm 26, 190lbs, 6'3" and full-time student for 2 years now. Prior to being a full-time student, I was full-time military for 6 years. After seperating from the military, I became a student and have not been physically active since (i.e. working-out). Also, just this past month, I became really, really sick with mono like symptoms. During one of my blood screenings I requested a cholesterol test. Here are my results:

TOTAL: 155
HDL: 29
LDL: 103
VLDL: 23
TRIGLYCERIDES: 114

Also, before I was sick I weighed between 220-225, which I have always been 180-190 even in the military. Upon getting sick, I lost about 20-30 lbs in about 2 weeks - I know, not good. But, I am eating better now and feeling better. I didn't know if my sickness and sudden weight loss could cause a low HDL level. I've never had a cholesterol test before; therefore, I can't compare any data. My family also has NO history of heart problems/disease - most live into 80's.

Still waiting to see the doc.

Sorry this is lengthy; but, another blood screening I had completed was for liver enzymes and my bilirubin count was high. I read that cholesterol is made in the liver, or closely associated with the liver. Anyway, I didn't know if maybe that had something to do with the low HDL level. Also with my sickness, my white blood cell was a little low, which the doctors expected. Maybe that could affect it also???

Thanks in advance

It was not until the last few years that low HDL cholesterol levels have been recognized as an independent risk factor for heart disease. That is, even if their total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels are normal, people with reduced levels of HDL have an increased risk of early coronary artery disease. (HDL levels, to be considered "normal," should be at least 35 - 40 mg/DL.)


I also have low hdl but its never been a prob for me I dont have to take anything for it or anything.

being overweight, a high-fat diet, and lack of proper physical exercise are all reasons for having a low amount of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol).

Read this discusion between doctors if a low HDL is signifacant or not. Halfway down the page, it starts to make sense.

"For the umpty-eleventh time:

Never in nutritional history have so many ostensibly bright people
totally misunderstood something so consistently..."

Long moderate cardio and high niacin foods help HDL. Diet can affect it a lot.

Your LDL at 103 is better than most.

first check blood sugar high lost weight to be able symptom of diabetes ,for increased HDL eat almond ,peanut,salmon,nut. you need omega3 supplement .take some mult vitamin like protect plus that only buy med order . the mono symptoms check hepatitis screening remember you visit other country and eat with dirty hand fruit and street food first cause hepatitis