Cholesterol Background
Cholesterol, a soft, waxy like substance, flows through the blood stream and is withdrawn for use in the muscles, liver and heart, as well as making bile acids (which aid in the digestion process), vitamin D and several hormones. According to the CDC, about 17 percent of all American adults have high cholesterol, a major risk factor for heart disease, the number cause of death in America. Cholesterol is part of a chemical compound called lipids, more commonly known as fats. It comes from two sources: the body produces a majority of what it needs while the diet makes up for the other portion. Cholesterol in the diet comes from animal products like dairy, eggs and all meats. Even though cholesterol is necessary for healthy functioning, there is a limit to it, as it can become dangerous. Low Density Lipoproteins, LDL, is considered the bad cholesterol because it can stick to arterial walls, creating blockages known as atherosclerosis. These blockages can cause heart attack and stroke if left unchecked. Meanwhile, High Density Lipoproteins, HDL is considered the good cholesterol because it helps remove LDL from the blood stream, helping to prevent blockages from occurring.
LDL and HDL Recommendations
A simple blood test can reveal the amounts of each type in the blood stream. The American Heart Association recommends an LDL level less than 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). LDL levels between 100 and 129 mg/dl are above optimal, between 130 and 159 mg/dl is borderline high, 160-189 mg/dl is high, and above 190 mg/dl is very high and puts you at a greater risk of heart disease. HDL levels for men should be no less than 40mg/dl, while women should have no less than 50 mg/dl.
Calculating Total Cholesterol
Adding the totals of LDL and HDL will give you a total cholesterol figure. The American Heart Association recommends a total cholesterol figure of less than 200 mg/dl for the least amount of risk. Between 200 and 239 mg/dl is borderline high risk, while above 240 mg/dl is high risk. Those who have a total cholesterol figure above 240 mg/dl have twice the risk of coronary heart disease as people who are under 200 mg/dl. One final calculation to take in effect is the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL. Because HDL is good and helps reduce the risk of heart disease a high number here will help balance a high total cholesterol figure. The recommended ratio is less than 5 to 1 total cholesterol to HDL, with the optimal ratio being 3.5 o 1.
