Final answer:
The claim that an HDL cholesterol level over 20 mg/dL indicates a low risk for cardiac disease is false. A level above 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL for women is considered healthier, with higher levels associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. HDL helps transport excess cholesterol to the liver, preventing plaque buildup.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "An HDL cholesterol level over 20 mg/dL indicates a low risk for cardiac disease." is false. For healthy cholesterol levels, specifically HDL levels, a value of less than 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL for women is considered a risk factor for developing heart disease. A higher HDL level is generally better, and it is known as the "good cholesterol transporter" because it helps transport excess cholesterol back to the liver for recycling, which prevents plaque formation in the arteries.
HDL cholesterol works to reduce the risk of heart disease by transporting excess cholesterol away from the arteries to the liver, where it can be processed and eliminated from the body. Therefore, individuals should aim for higher HDL levels well above 20 mg/dL to have protective benefits against heart disease. The ideal range for HDL is generally considered to be 50-130 mg/100 ml of blood. To maintain a proper LDL/HDL ratio and overall heart health, dietary modifications and increased physical activity are recommended.