When you test your cholesterol levels, there are four basic readings that make up your overall score: total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglycerides. Any abnormality in one or more of these numbers often requires some level of treatment.
Total Cholesterol
A good reading for your total cholesterol is any number less than 200 mg/dL, which stands for milligrams of cholesterol per deciliter of blood.
Low-Density Lipoprotein
With low-density lipoprotein, you are shooting for a reading of less than 130 mg/dL, but the optimal level is less than 100 mg/dL.
High-Density Lipoprotein
With high-density lipoprotein, the reading that you are hoping for is actually in reverse. HDL cholesterol is considered "good" cholesterol, so you really want over 40 mg/dL in this reading. However, anything above 60 mg/dL goes a longer way to preventing heart disease.
Triglycerides
Another form of fat found in your bloodstream are triglycerides. Much like total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, you want a lower reading of anything below 150 mg/dL.
Prevention/Solution
To better ensure you have a good cholesterol reading, diet and exercise can frequently keep your cholesterol levels within a healthy range. A diet low in fat, cholesterol and sodium, yet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can combat the escalation of unhealthy cholesterol while increasing your HDL cholesterol. A healthy weight can also help to prevent this condition.
