Even if you're not familiar with the dozens of other results from a blood test, chances are you have an intimate knowledge of what your cholesterol levels should be. Consumers have been well educated by the media and the medical community about the importance of lowering cholesterol to avoid heart disease.
There are actually several cholesterol numbers you should be concerned with. These include your total cholesterol, low density lipoproteins and high density lipoproteins. All of them have a direct relationship to your risk for contracting heart disease.
Determining Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol levels are best measured after fasting for 10 to 12 hours. Most physicians include a blood lipid test as part of your annual physical examination. If you suspect that you may have high cholesterol, have your test repeated every six months. Otherwise, annually will suffice.
The Different Types of Cholesterol
Review the results of your blood lipid test with your doctor. There are a number of cholesterol numbers that are important. Total cholesterol is sum of your low density lipoprotein (LDL), or the bad type of cholesterol, and high density lipoprotein (HDL), the good type of cholesterol. LDL is responsible for the accumulation of cholesterol inside of your arteries. HDL scavenges the LDL and pulls it out of the body.
Normal vs. Abnormal Cholesterol Numbers
According to the American Heart Association, a desirable total cholesterol level is less than 200 mg/dl. Total cholesterol between 200 to 239 represents borderline to high risk for heart disease. Cholesterol over 240 represents a high risk for heart disease. Strive to lower your LDL cholesterol to less than 140 mg/dl. Your HDL should be higher than 40 mg/dl for men and 50 mg/dl for women.
