HDL Particle Size
Lipids marker
HDL Size
HDL Particle Size
Mean diameter of HDL particles. Larger HDL particles are more cardioprotective, associated with better reverse cholesterol transport capacity.
PED Notes
AAS shrink HDL particles by reducing the proportion of large cardioprotective HDL. Smaller HDL is less effective at reverse cholesterol transport. Oral AAS have the most pronounced effect on HDL size. Regular aerobic exercise promotes larger HDL particles. HDL size typically recovers post-cycle alongside HDL-C and HDL-P.
When low
Supplements:
- Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) -- 2-4g/day
- Niacin -- 500-1000mg extended-release (increases HDL size)
Lifestyle:
- Regular aerobic exercise 3-5x/week (most effective)
- If on oral AAS, monitor HDL size alongside HDL-C and HDL-P
- Post-cycle: prioritise cardio to accelerate HDL recovery
Educational information, not medical advice. Nothing here is a prescription or a treatment plan, and it does not account for your history, medications or conditions. Use it to ask better questions: bring it to your doctor and decide together. Full disclaimer.
History Chart
Reading History
Frequently Asked Questions
Reference Ranges
Standard Range
VitalMetrics Range