HDL Particle Number · low result
What does a low HDL Particle Number mean?
Short answer
A low HDL particle number (HDL-P) means fewer HDL particles are circulating, regardless of how much cholesterol each carries. HDL-P tracks cardiovascular risk more consistently than HDL cholesterol and is low in insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, smoking, inactivity and some inherited conditions. Raising it is lifestyle work; no drug that raises HDL has reduced heart attacks.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for HDL Particle Number?
- age 18+: 30.5 – 50.0 umol/L
Full reference table, citations and testing options: HDL Particle Number biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low HDL Particle Number?
- Insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obesity
- Smoking, inactivity
- High triglycerides
- Anabolic steroids, some beta-blockers and progestins
- Genetic low-HDL conditions (rare)
What symptoms go with low HDL Particle Number?
- None
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Triglycerides, A1c, ApoB
- Exercise, weight loss, smoking cessation — the levers that move HDL-P
- Focus treatment on ApoB/LDL, which drugs can change
How do you recheck HDL Particle Number?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced Cholesterol Particle Test (NMR) | Test · 9 biomarkers | $70.99 | Yes | 3–5 business days |
Common questions
Should I take niacin or a supplement to raise HDL?
No — niacin raises HDL numbers without lowering heart attacks in trials, and adds side effects. Aerobic exercise and weight loss raise HDL-P and improve outcomes.
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.