Cholesterol readings can provide an indication of the amount of total cholesterol circulating in your bloodstream, as well as the amount of each individual type of cholesterol. Cholesterol is measured in milligrams per deciliter, and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute provides clear guidelines for healthy cholesterol levels. There is little known risk of having too little LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream, though any reading outside the norm may be associated with some adverse health effects.
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy substance similar to fat. Cholesterol plays an essential role in the function of the human cell, and a certain amount of cholesterol is needed to maintain cellular health, as well as regulate the production of several hormones. High cholesterol is generally a greater concern than too little in the diet, as too much cholesterol can result in cardiovascular disease. The liver produces enough cholesterol on its own that little is needed in the diet.
LDL Cholesterol
Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, cholesterol is harmful because it can adhere to your arterial walls, building a thick plaque. This plaque can restrict blood flow, causing increased blood pressure and, in more severe cases, heart attacks and strokes. An LDL reading of 100 to 129 is considered near optimal, while a reading of below 100 is associated with the least risk of cardiovascular disease.
Risk of Low LDL
Though rare, too low of an LDL reading may be associated with some health problems. Extremely low LDLs in the bloodstream may be linked to mood disturbances such as depression and anxiety, as well as some types of cancer, explains MayoClinic.com. Low LDLs in women who are pregnant may result in low birth weight or premature birth. The exact number of LDLs associated with these health effects is not yet known.
Recommendations
Scientists are still investigating the effects of too little LDL in the diet; if you are worried about your cholesterol level, you should speak with your physician. For general healthy cholesterol levels, limit fat intake -- especially trans and saturated fats. A diet high in fiber can help control cholesterol levels, and the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish are a healthy alternative to the saturated fats found in red meat. Exercise can help increase HDL -- the good cholesterol -- and lower LDL.
