It is well known that people can develop certain diseases, such as heart disease, if they do not keep their cholesterol levels within healthy limits. High levels of LDL cholesterol cause the most harm and health complications. You can get your cholesterol checked by your doctor to learn your cholesterol numbers and see if you are within a healthy range.
Types of Cholesterol
There are two types of cholesterol--high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is known as the "bad" cholesterol because it sticks to the walls of arteries and begins to slow the movement of blood. HDL cholesterol is known as the "good" cholesterol because it appears to take LDL from the bloodstream and transport it to the liver to be processed and destroyed.
Measurement
The American Heart Association says the most common form of a cholesterol measurement is a total cholesterol level. Cholesterol levels are measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) in the blood. The health care provider will interpret your cholesterol numbers taking into account factors such as age, family history, gender, physical activity level or other health complications. Certain lifestyle factors can help explain your cholesterol levels.
Desirable Ranges
The American Heart Association recommends a total cholesterol level below 200 mg/dL. A cholesterol level between 200 and 239 mg/dL is considered borderline high, and anything above 240 mg/dL is considered high. HDL cholesterol levels should be above 60 mg/dL for maximum benefits, while the ideal level for LDL cholesterol is below 100 mg/dL. Men should not have HDL cholesterol levels below 40 mg/dL, and women should not have HDL cholesterol levels below 50 mg/dL.
HDL to LDL Cholesterol Ratio
A ratio of HDL to LDL that is often recommended is 1 to 3; for example, the HDL should be no higher than 50 mg/dL if the LDL is 150 mg/dL. LDL cholesterol levels decrease naturally as HDL cholesterol levels increase since the HDL cholesterol helps to remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.
Risk Factors
The American Heart Association says certain risk factors can affect the LDL levels a person should aim for. Risk factors can include any previous diseases, artery blockages, smoking, previous heart attack or family history. The LDL goal for a person who does not have heart disease, diabetes or any risk factors is less than 160 mg/dL. If this person has two or more risk factors, he should aim for an LDL of less than 130 mg/dL.
