Can HDL help with fatigue?

HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is often called 'good cholesterol,' but its direct role in fatigue is not well established. Some evidence suggests HDL has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and chronic inflammation can contribute to fatigue. However, these links come mostly from observational studies, not clinical trials. Low HDL is often part of metabolic syndrome, which is associated with low energy. Improving HDL through lifestyle changes (exercise, Mediterranean diet) may indirectly help fatigue, but using drugs to raise HDL (e.g., niacin) has not shown fatigue benefits and may cause side effects. MyBody-X tests report HDL as a biomarker, not a treatment. If you experience persistent fatigue, consult a doctor to check for other causes like anemia, thyroid issues, or sleep disorders. Evidence: human-moderate, with caveats.