A cholesterol test is a blood test that checks the amount of the different types of cholesterol in your blood. Based on the results you may need to manage your cholesterol levels through dietary changes, exercise and medication to reduce your risk for developing heart disease or other forms of chronic illness. If you are unsure of your levels, talk with your health care provider about getting your levels checked.
Cholesterol Numbers
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the results of a cholesterol test have four numbers related to your blood cholesterol. The test checks total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. The normal results for a cholesterol test should be a total cholesterol reading of less than 200 mg/dL, an HDL reading higher than 40 mg/dL, an LDL reading of less than 100 mg/dL and a triglyceride reading of 150 mg/dL or less.
HDL
HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein and is the most desirable form of cholesterol. High levels of HDL are related to a decreased risk for heart disease, and HDL is considered a healthy form of cholesterol. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that HDL is considered healthy because it transports cholesterol from your artery walls to your liver for disposal from your body. It further adds that HDL helps keep your arteries open and reduces your risk for heart attack.
LDL
LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein and is also known as bad cholesterol. LDL gets its negative name from the fact that it transports cholesterol from your blood to your cells and the higher your LDL levels, the higher your risk for heart disease, heart attack and stroke. Eating foods that are high in saturated and trans fat can cause your body to produce excess LDL.
Triglycerides and Total Cholesterol
Triglycerides are another form of lipoprotein. Triglycerides rise as your HDL levels decline, and they may cause inflammation and blood clots, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Your total cholesterol is simply the amount of all of the different cholesterol types in your blood. Cholesterol is a natural substance, and some cholesterol in your body is a good thing, but too much can be dangerous to your health. If your cholesterol test results are in the ideal range then you have healthy cholesterol levels, but if you have high LDL, triglycerides or total cholesterol then you need to improve your diet, start exercising and talk with your doctor about medication or other lifestyle modifications that you can make to improve your levels.
