Cholesterol is a waxy substance that your body utilizes to make hormones, cell membranes and bile. Some of the cholesterol in your body is made by your liver and the rest comes from your diet. Your cholesterol levels can play a role in the development of cardiovascular disease. Your cholesterol levels are measured as part of a blood test known as a lipid profile.
Total Cholesterol
Your total cholesterol levels are often used to help you determine your risk of developing a condition known as atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is caused by cholesterol deposits in the walls of the arteries, resulting in narrow and stiff blood vessels. Ideal total cholesterol levels are below 200mg/dL of blood, the American Heart Association explains. Levels between 200 and 239mg/dL are borderline high and values greater than 240 are high. People with high cholesterol levels are twice as likely to develop coronary heart disease than people with levels below 200mg/dL.
Low-Density Lipoprotein
Although your total cholesterol numbers are important, the concentration of low-density lipoprotein in your blood is also crucial for determining your risk of cardiovascular problems. Your body packages cholesterol into complexes known as lipoproteins to help transport cholesterol in the blood. High levels of one lipoprotein, known as low-density lipoprotein or LDL cholesterol, increase your risk of developing atherosclerosis. Ideal levels of LDL are below 100mg/dL of blood. Near optimal is between 100 and 129mg/dL, and 130 to 159mg/dL is borderline high. Levels above 159mg/dL are considered high or very high.
High-Density Lipoprotein
Not all forms of cholesterol are bad. One type of lipoprotein, known as high-density lipoprotein or HDL cholesterol is involved in transporting cholesterol back to the liver. Because HDL molecules can act as cholesterol scavengers, high levels of HDL can protect you from atherosclerosis. Ideal levels of HDL are above 60mg/dL On average, women have levels between 50 and 59mg/dL and men have levels between 40 and 49mg/dL. Levels lower than these ranges increase your risk of developing atherosclerosis.
Improving Your Cholesterol Levels
If you have high total cholesterol or LDL levels or have abnormally low HDL levels, improving your lipid profile can help lower your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Reducing the amount of cholesterol and saturated fat can reduce your LDL and total cholesterol levels. Omega-3 fatty acids, which can be found in flaxseed oil and fatty fish, can increase your HDL concentration. Prescription medications, such as statins, niacin and cholesterol absorption inhibitors may also be beneficial.
