Cholesterol is a vital biological molecule. It has an integral role in maintaining normal cell structure and is involved in the physiologic synthesis of steroid hormones and bile salts. While normal cholesterol levels are integral for survival, elevated levels are associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. A lipid profile is a laboratory blood test that measures the levels of various cholesterol-protein complexes. The American Heart Association has identified healthy ranges of these complexes in the blood.
Elements of the Lipid Profile
Cholesterol does not float freely in the bloodstream. Instead, it circulates bound to various proteins. These cholesterol-protein complexes are defined by their density, which is related to the amount of cholesterol bound. Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, has a low ratio of protein relative to cholesterol. High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, has a high ratio of protein relative to cholesterol. In addition to LDL and HDL, the lipid profile measures total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. All levels are expressed as milligrams per deciliter, mg/dL.
Total Cholesterol Range
According to the American Heart Association, a total cholesterol level of less than 200 mg/dL is recommended to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease. A total cholesterol level between 200 mg/dL and 239 mg/dL is considered borderline high. A level of 240 mg/dL or greater is high and significantly increases a person's risk for cardiovascular disease.
LDL Range
LDL has been given the moniker "bad" cholesterol because elevated levels can lead to cholesterol deposition and subsequent arterial blockage. According to the American Heart Association, a level less than 100 mg/dL is optimal. A level between 100 mg/dL and 129 mg/dL is near optimal. A level between 130 mg/dL and 159 mg/dL is borderline high. A level between 160 mg/dL and 189 mg/dL is high. A level of 190 mg/dL or greater is very high.
HDL Range
HDL is also known as good cholesterol because it functions to remove cholesterol from arterial walls. According to the American Heart Association, an HDL level less than 40 mg/dL for men or 50 mg/dL for women is considered low and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. A level of 60 mg/dL or greater is considered beneficial and may prevent coronary artery disease.
Triglyceride Range
Elevated triglycerides levels can be associated with an increased risk for both arterial disease and diabetes. According to the American Heart Association, a level less than 150 mg/dL is normal. A level between 150 mg/dL and 199 mg/dL is borderline high. A level between 200 mg/dL and 499 mg/dL is high. A level of 500 mg/dL or greater is very high.
