Having high blood cholesterol is a known risk factor for heart disease. Everyone over the age of 20 years old should have their blood cholesterol levels measured every five years since there are no symptoms of high levels. Being aware of and treating high cholesterol early could help reduce your chances of atherosclerosis and heart disease in the future.
Total Cholesterol
Optimum total cholesterol levels are below 200 mg/dL. It is considered high if levels are above 240 mg/dL. According to the American Heart Association, an individual with a total cholesterol level above 240 mg/dL has more than twice the risk of getting heart disease than someone whose total cholesterol is below 240 mg/dL.
Low-density Lipoprotein
Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, is the "bad" cholesterol. It is the main source of blockage and buildup in arteries. The lower your LDL, the lower your risk for stroke and heart attack. Desirable levels are below 100 mg/dL. LDL levels above 160 mg/dL is high, with levels above 189 mg/dL considered very high.
High-density Lipoprotein
You want your high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, as high as possible. This cholesterol is moving away from your arteries, preventing buildup. The lower your HDL levels -- low is considered below 40 mg/dL -- the higher your risk for heart disease. If your HDL Level is above 60 mg/dL, you have some protection against heart disease.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are another fat in your blood that is measured in a lipoprotein panel that could indicate increased risk of heart disease. Optimal levels are below 150 mg/dL. High triglycerides, levels above 200 mg/dL, are often due to inactivity, being overweight, smoking, excess alcohol consumption or a high carbohydrate intake.
Treating High Cholesterol
There are three main things you can do to help lower your total and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while increasing your HDL. First, a sedentary lifestyle is a major risk factor for heart disease. Exercising 30 minutes a day for most days will help decrease LDL and triglycerides while raising your HDL. Second, make sure your diet is low in saturated and trans fat, low in cholesterol and high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Third, watch your weight. Being overweight increases your risk of heart disease. If exercise, changing your diet and losing weight does not help, your doctor may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications.
