Your cholesterol levels are usually measured as a part of a lipid profile, which includes separate measurements for LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and total cholesterol, or the sum of both types of cholesterol. Triglycerides, which are another type of lipid in the bloodstream, are also usually measured as part of a lipid profile. Your doctor may order a lipid profile during a regular physical exam or if he suspects that you have high cholesterol levels.
LDL Cholesterol
LDL cholesterol, often referred to as bad cholesterol, is the form of cholesterol in your blood that contributes to the accumulation of cholesterol and plaque on the walls of your arteries. Too much LDL cholesterol in your blood can lead to atherosclerosis and significantly increases your risk of heart disease.
The desirable LDL cholesterol level depends on your general health status. If you have existing heart disease or risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes or excess weight, your LDL goal is less than 70 mg/dL. If you are an otherwise healthy adult, your desirable LDL levels are less than 100 mg/dL. LDL cholesterol levels between 100 and 129 mg/dL are considered near optimal.
HDL Cholesterol
HDL cholesterol, often referred to as good cholesterol, helps remove excess cholesterol from your bloodstream. HDL cholesterol contains proteins and phospholipids that pick up cholesterol and carry it to your liver so that your body can remove it. Because of this mechanism, it is desirable for your HDL cholesterol levels to be high, rather than low. A desirable HDL cholesterol level for men is more than 40 mg/dL and a desirable HDL cholesterol level for women is more than 50 mg/dL. An HDL level of 60 mg/dL or higher is defined by the American Heart Association as protective against heart disease.
Total Cholesterol
A desirable total cholesterol level for adults is less than 200 mg/dL. Keeping your total cholesterol level under 200 mg/dL decreases your risk of developing coronary heart disease. As your total cholesterol numbers rise, so does your risk of heart disease.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are not a type of cholesterol, but they are the most common type of fat in the body, according to the American Heart Association. Like cholesterol, increased triglyceride levels can increase your risk of heart disease. Because of this, triglycerides are often measured with your cholesterol to assess your risk of heart disease. A desirable triglyceride level is defined as less than 150 mg/dL.
