Cholesterol is a substance that is produced by the kidneys and the liver and is stored in the bloodstream. It is necessary to support good health. However, because it is also found in certain foods, you run the risk of having too much cholesterol present in the bloodstream. This can cause other health issues and contribute to the development of heart disease. Although your physician may check your cholesterol levels, it can still be difficult to determine whether your daily intake of cholesterol is too high.
Cholesterol and Calories
In general, the recommendations for your intake of substances such as cholesterol, fat or dietary fiber is based on your caloric intake. For example, the U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that if you eat an average of 2,000 calories per day, you should limit your intake of cholesterol from foods to 300 mg per day. This is a general recommendation, so if you eat more or fewer calories, your cholesterol intake may be different. Work with your physician to identify what your specific target cholesterol intake should be.
Cholesterol and Heart Disease
Keeping your cholesterol within a healthy range prevents the risk of developing heart disease from rising. If you have or are at risk for developing heart disease, reduce your daily cholesterol intake to 200 mg per day; the less the better.
Cholesterol and Saturated Fat
Although it is not always true, generally foods that are high in saturated fat are high in cholesterol. Keeping your intake of saturated fat under control can help you manage your cholesterol levels as well. According to the USDA, you should limit your intake of saturated fat to 16 to 22 g per day, and even less if you suffer from heart disease or are at risk.
Recommended Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol is measured in milligrams per deciliter. It is also assessed according to three categories: total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, and high-density lipoprotein, or HDL. MayoClinic.com recommends you aim for a total cholesterol level of below 200 mg/dL. An LDL level of 100 to 129 mg/dL is near ideal. However, if you have or are at risk for heart disease, aim for a LDL level of less than 100 mg/dL. An HDL level of 60 mg/dL and above is considered the desired range.
