According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cholesterol is a "waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs." The body uses it for many different functions, but too much can lead to health risks and problems, including blocked arteries that lead to heart disease and stroke. Different types of cholesterol in the body perform different functions. Each type of cholesterol has its own range for optimal health.
Low-Density Lipoproteins
Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are known as the "bad" type of cholesterol because too much in the blood can lead to plaque on the artery walls. This can make arteries less flexible and reduce or block blood flow, potentially leading to heart attack or stroke. The recommended level for LDL cholesterol is less than 100 mg/dL. Ways to reduce LDL include avoiding tobacco smoke, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight.
High-Density Lipoproteins
High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are also known as the "good cholesterol." They absorb LDL and carry it to the liver to be broken down and eliminated from the body. The recommended level of HDL is 60 mg/dL or more. High levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of heart disease, stroke and other chronic diseases. Ways to improve HDL include regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are another type of fat found in the plasma of the blood. They are measured along with cholesterol levels. The recommended level of triglycerides is less than 150 mg/dL. Elevated levels of triglycerides in the blood can be caused by other diseases such as diabetes or a diet high in sugars and carbohydrates. Elevated levels of triglycerides can lead to heart disease and should be controlled by eating healthy and exercising regularly.
Total Cholesterol
The total cholesterol number should be less than 200 mg/dL.This number is not broken down into HDL, LDL and other specific types of cholesterol. Testing for the total cholesterol number is the easiest and least expensive test to do.
Recommendations
Because no symptoms are associated with high cholesterol levels, the American Heart Association recommends that all adults age 20 or older get all cholesterol levels measured every five years. Those with known high cholesterol levels should have their levels checked more often, as directed by their physician. Living a healthy lifestyle, including eating a heart-healthy diet and getting plenty of exercise, will help lower LDL levels, increase HDL levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Cholesterol
- American Heart Association: LDL and HDL Cholesterol--What's Bad and What's Good?
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Cholesterol Fact Sheet
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: LDL and HDL
- American Heart Association: Triglycerides
