Why is HDL considered 'good' cholesterol?

HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, is often referred to as 'good' cholesterol primarily because it plays a crucial role in transporting cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver. When HDL removes cholesterol from artery plaques, it helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes. By facilitating the process of reverse cholesterol transport, HDL contributes to maintaining healthy blood vessels and overall cardiovascular health.

The other options presented do not accurately reflect the role of HDL. Weight gain is generally associated with the consumption of excess calories and unhealthy dietary choices rather than specific types of cholesterol. Increased blood pressure is not a characteristic of HDL; in fact, high levels of HDL are often associated with lower blood pressure and better heart health. Lastly, HDL is not abundant in processed foods; rather, it can be found in higher concentrations in healthy fats, such as those found in fish, nuts, and olive oil. Thus, the protective effects of HDL against heart disease and its capacity to clear cholesterol from arteries underscore why it is considered 'good' cholesterol.