Final answer:
HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, transports excess cholesterol back to the liver, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
HDL, also known as high-density lipoprotein, plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of developing heart disease. Its main function is to transport excess cholesterol from other parts of the body back to the liver, where it can be metabolized and eliminated. This process helps prevent the buildup of cholesterol in the arteries and reduces the risk of plaque formation. Having high levels of HDL is considered beneficial for heart health.