The National Cholesterol Education Program recommends that all adults age 20 and older undergo a fasting lipid profile every five years. A fasting lipid profile is a simple blood test taken after a 9- to 12-hour fast. These results, along with other risk factors such as age, smoking, family history and blood pressure, will be used by your doctor to determine your risk of heart disease. The lipid profile consists of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
Total Cholesterol
Your total cholesterol should ideally be less than 200 mg/dL. A cholesterol level of 200 to 239 mg/dL indicates a borderline high result, and a level of 240 mg/dL or more is considered a high result. The higher your total cholesterol level, the higher your risk for heart disease.
If your results are higher than desirable levels, your physician may prescribe dietary changes, cholesterol-lowering medication, smoking cessation and/or weight loss.
LDL Cholesterol
Low density lipoprotein, or LDL, which is considered the "bad" cholesterol. LDL levels should ideally be less than 100 mg/dL. Anything higher than 190 mg/dL is considered very high and may indicate a greater risk for heart disease.
To lower LDL levels, cut down on dietary fat, specifically saturated and trans fats. Increase consumption of dietary fiber from fruit, vegetables and whole grain cereals and breads.
HDL Cholesterol
High density lipoprotein, or HDL, is considered "good" cholesterol. When it comes to your HDL cholesterol, the higher the better, especially in women. Levels lower than 40 mg/dL in men and 50 mg/dL in women have been associated with higher risk of heart disease. Levels higher than 60 mg/dL have been shown to be protective for the heart.
Participating in daily physical activity can help to raise your HDL cholesterol level. Aim for 30 to 60 minutes of cardiovascular activity. It's also important to avoid smoking and lose weight if you are overweight to help increase HDL levels.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are another type of blood fat tested in the lipid profile. A desirable triglyceride level is less than 150 mg/dL. Anything greater than that is considered high, with levels greater than 500 mg/dL considered very high; this may put you at risk for pancreatitis. Being overweight or obese, cigarette smoking and excessive alcohol and carbohydrate consumption are all associated with elevated triglyceride levels.
