Talking about your cholesterol level has become more complicated. Most medical personnel order not just a total cholesterol level but also a panel that breaks down your cholesterol numbers into high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein and triglyceride levels. While memorizing the ideal total cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL or below wasn't too difficult, keeping up with the good, bad and average ranges of HDL, LDL and triglycerides can be more brain-taxing.
High-Density Lipoprotein
High-density lipoprotein, often called HDL, is one type of protein that carries cholesterol. Cholesterol does not dissolve in liquid, so it can't maneuver in the bloodstream on its own. Instead, it attaches to HDL and LDL particles that travel through the bloodstream. High-density lipoprotein is sometimes called the "good" type of cholesterol. While much still needs to be learned about HDL, it appears that most HDL particles are large and fluffy. The cholesterol it carries does not stick to the walls of arteries like LDL, the "bad" cholesterol, does; in fact, HDL removes cholesterol and carries it back to the liver. If your HDL is high, your doctor is happy. High-density lipoprotein levels below 40 mg/dL can increase your risk of heart disease. Levels between 40 and 60 mg/dL are acceptable, and levels over 60 mg/dL are considered protective against heart disease. Increasing HDL levels by 1 mg/dL lowers your risk of heart disease by 2 to 5 percent, Indiana State University reports.
Low-Density Lipoprotein
High LDL levels, on the other hand, will elicit frowns from your medical practitioner. Low-density lipoproteins tend to be hard, small and dense; they cling easily to artery walls and increase your risk of developing atherosclerosis and heart disease. With LDL, the lower the number, the happier your doctor will be. Optimal levels fall below 100 mg/dL, while LDL levels between 100 and 129 mg/dL are considered near optimal. Levels between 130 and 159 mg/dL are borderline high and levels between 160 and 189 mg/dL are considered high. An LDL over 190 mg/dL is considered very high.
Triglycerides
Most of the fat carried through your body travels and is stored in the form of triglycerides. High triglyceride levels often occur in people who are overweight and may contribute to atherosclerosis buildup in the arteries. Triglyceride levels below 150 mg/dL are considered normal, with levels between 150 and 199 mg/dL considered borderline. Levels between 200 and 488 mg/dL are high, and levels over that are very high.
Lowering Cholesterol Levels
Although medications can lower LDL and triglycerides and raise HDL, lifestyle changes can also impact cholesterol levels. Increasing exercise, losing weight, quitting smoking and eating more polyunsaturated fats and less saturated fats can all benefit your cholesterol levels.
