Your levels of HDL and LDL, which refer to high-density lipoproteins and low-density lipoproteins, can tell you if your total blood cholesterol is within acceptable limits. HDL or "good" cholesterol can actually prevent heart disease. However, LDL or "bad" cholesterol can cause blocked arteries; your levels of this cholesterol should be kept at minimum.
More About Cholesterol
Lipoproteins are the transport vehicles for cholesterol particles. Most of the cholesterol in your body is made up of LDL cholesterol, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. Your body can produce it, but your LDL cholesterol levels can be increased by the types of food you eat. Some people are genetically predisposed to excess amounts of LDL cholesterol. While LDL encourages the buildup of plaque on the arterial walls, HDL cholesterol carries cholesterol particles to your liver, which in turn removes them from your body. High LDL cholesterol is associated with heart disease, heart attack and stroke.
HDL Levels
When considering your high-density cholesterol levels, "high" is the word to remember -- your HDL cholesterol should be higher than your LDL cholesterol. According to the American Heart Association, or AHA, minimum levels of HDL cholesterol that are considered within acceptable limits are 60mg/dL and above for both men and women. Levels that indicate you may be more at risk for heart disease are less than 40 mg/dL for men; and less than 50 mg/dL for women.
LDL Levels
When measuring low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, remember that lower is better. Minimum levels of LDL cholesterol that put you at near optimal range fall between 100 to 120mg/dL; below 100mg/dL is even better. An HDL level of 130 to 150mg/dL borders the high end of what is considered acceptable, and 160 to 189mg/dL is considered high. An HDL level of 190mg/dL or more is considered extremely high.
Cholesterol Testing
Your LDL and HDL levels are part of a total cholesterol test, or lipid profile. This test also measures your triglycerides, another type of fat that can be problematic. According to the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, a first cholesterol screening is usually done on women between the ages of 20 and 45 and men between the ages of 20 and 35, with subsequent tests conducted every 5 years. This test is also performed on people with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.
High Cholesterol Factors
Your cholesterol can be influenced by numerous factors, including age, gender, family history and what foods you eat, says the AHA. A diet high in saturated and trans fats, and dietary cholesterol can increase your LDL or "bad" cholesterol. If you have high cholesterol that's difficult to manage, your doctor may recommend prescription medications for you to take. However, the AHA indicates that changes in your lifestyle can also do the trick. Eat a healthy diet low in fat and dietary cholesterol, get regular exercise and avoid tobacco use.
