If you've gotten your cholesterol tested, the results may look like a foreign language. A high reading of some types of cholesterol, like low-density lipoprotein, are bad, while a high reading of high-density lipoprotein, or good cholesterol, is beneficial. Eliminate the guesswork of your cholesterol results by educating yourself on the different types of cholesterol and what levels you should be aiming for.
Total Cholesterol
Your total cholesterol is the combined number of your good cholesterol, your bad cholesterol and your triglyceride levels. When a doctor refers to your cholesterol level, he is probably talking about your total cholesterol level. A total cholesterol level of below 200 mg/dL, or milligrams of cholesterol per deciliter, is preferred. A level of 200 to 239 mg/dL is considered somewhat high, while any reading above 240 mg/dL is considered high. Your doctor may prescribe medication or recommend lifestyle changes if your cholesterol is above 200.
Low-Density Lipoprotein
Low-density lipoprotein, or bad cholesterol, transports cholesterol in the blood to the cells of the body. If your low-density lipoprotein numbers are low, there is usually not a problem. When LDL levels are high, however, the cholesterol may collect in the arteries, putting you at risk for heart disease and stroke. If you are at a high risk of heart disease, your doctor may recommend your LDL levels stay below 70 mg/dL. A level of 100 to 129 mg/dL is close to ideal. A reading of 130-159 mg/dL is on the high end, while levels of 160 to 189 mg/dL is considered high. If your LDL levels are higher than 190, they are considered very high.
High-Density Lipoprotein
High-density lipoprotein, or good cholesterol, may reduce LDL and total cholesterol levels. Unlike low-density lipoprotein, high levels of HDL are beneficial. HDL levels of under 40 mg/dL for men and under 50 mg/dL for women are considered bad. A reading of 50 to 59 mg/dL is considered acceptable, while a reading of 60 mg/dL or more is ideal. Consuming 2 tbsp. of olive oil per day may help raise your HDL levels, especially when you use it instead of butter or shortening.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides directly affect your high-density lipoprotein levels. As your triglyceride levels rise, your HDL levels go lower. Additionally, high levels of triglycerides may increase your risk of blood clotting. Triglyceride levels of 150 mg/dL or below are ideal. A reading of 150 to 199 mg/dL is moderately high, while 200 to 499 mg/dL is considered high. Anything over 500 mg/dL is considered very high. Your doctor may prescribe medication if your triglyceride levels are above 150 mg/dL.
