Cholesterol is a waxy substance that the body can synthesize and it can also come from the diet. Cholesterol is often thought of negatively, but it is important for body function. When cholesterol levels get too high, however, it can cause problems. Triglycerides are fats that are found in the blood. High triglyceride levels can also be damaging to heart health.
Types of Cholesterol
Cholesterol is often referred to as "good" and "bad". High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, cholesterol is the good cholesterol. It carries cholesterol to the liver, where it can be filtered and removed from the body. Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, is the bad cholesterol. It contributes to the buildup of plaque on the arteries and can lead to heart disease. When measuring cholesterol values, the goal is to have high levels of HDL cholesterol in the blood and low levels of LDL cholesterol.
Cholesterol Values
A lipid profile measures different cholesterol values: total cholesterol, LDL and HDL. The American Heart Association defines a desirable total cholesterol level as less than 200mg/dL. Borderline high cholesterol is defined as 200 to 239mg/dL and high cholesterol is 240mg/dL or higher.
Less than 100mg/dL is considered optimal for LDL cholesterol and near optimal is 100 to 129mg/dL. Borderline high values are defined as 130 to 159mg/dL. Any value between 160 and 189mg/dL is considered high and 190mg/dL and above is considered very high.
The goal for HDL cholesterol is to increase the numbers. An HDL level of less than 40mg/dL for men and less than 50mg/dL for women contributes to heart disease. The American Heart Association considers HDL values of 60mg/dL or above to be preventative against heart disease.
Triglyceride Values
Specific normal triglyceride values vary according to age and sex, but general values are given by the American Heart Association. Normal triglyceride levels are defined as less than 150mg/dL. Borderline high values are 150 to 199mg/dL and high values are 200 to 499mg/dL. A triglyceride level of 500mg/dL or higher is considered very high.
Considerations
According to the American Heart Association, a high total cholesterol value combined with a high triglyceride level increases your risk of atherosclerosis, which is the accumulation of fatty plaques on the arterial walls. Atherosclerosis can lead to heart disease, heart attack and stroke.
Maintaining Normal Levels
To maintain healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels, it is important to follow a heart-healthy diet. This diet includes plenty of whole grains, fruits and vegetables and low amounts of saturated fats, sodium and dietary cholesterol. In addition to a healthy diet, it is also important to follow a regular exercise routine and maintain a healthy weight. Avoidance of cigarette smoke can also help prevent increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
