Blood lipids are the fats in the bloodstream. When lipid levels are too elevated, the risk of cardiovascular disease increases as well. Lipids combine with proteins to make lipoproteins for transport through the blood, since they cannot dissolve in the liquid of the blood without a protein accompaniment. Some people can manage their blood lipid levels through lifestyle changes, while others may require medication.
Types
Cholesterol is the most well-known of the blood lipids, but there are two different types. Low-density lipoproteins, or LDL, are sometimes called bad cholesterol because they can build-up in the arteries and cause blockages. High-density lipoproteins, or HDL, is the good type of cholesterol that prevents arterial plaques. Triglycerides are another type of blood lipid that can contribute to heart disease if levels increase too much.
Levels
According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, total levels of cholesterol should remain below 200 mg/dL. LDL levels should ideally stay under 100 mg/dL, while over 190 mg/dL is considered extremely high. Because high HDL is beneficial, doctors prefer to see levels above 60 mg/dL. When HDL drops below 40 mg/dL, the risk of heart disease increases. Triglyceride levels should be under 150 mg/dL to prevent cardiovascular problems.
Other Factors
Heredity, age and gender all have an impact on a person's blood lipid levels. Lipid levels tend to increase as a person ages and pre-menopausal women tend to have lower levels than men. High cholesterol has a genetic component in some people. Controllable factors that affect blood lipids include weight, physical activity and diet. To maintain a healthy blood lipid profile, things that may help include losing weight, getting regular exercise and reducing consumption of saturated fat and dietary cholesterol. Consumption of simple sugars and alcohol can raise triglyceride levels.
Tests
A blood test for a total lipid profile requires a 12-hour fast before testing, according to Cleveland Clinic. The total lipid profile measures total cholesterol, HDL levels, LDL levels and triglyceride levels. Individual tests for HDL cholesterol and total cholesterol can be done at any time without prior fasting.
Lowering Lipids
Individuals with high LDL and triglyceride levels are typically advised to first try lowering their blood lipids through diet and exercise. Smokers may notice a decrease in cholesterol levels if they stop smoking, and overweight individuals can often lower cholesterol if they lose weight. Individuals who have difficulty lowering cholesterol and triglycerides through lifestyle changes may need to talk to a doctor about going on medication that can decrease blood lipid levels, explains MayoClinic.com. Common medications for lowering blood lipids include statins, bile acid binding resins, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, fibrates or a combination drug that includes multiple types of medication. Supplemental niacin or omega-3 fatty acids at prescription dosages are another option.
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