Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, and high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, refer to the forms of cholesterol transport systems coursing through your bloodstream. LDL is considered "bad," while HDL is considered "good." You need a healthy level of both for your body to conduct normal biological functions. High cholesterol occurs when your LDL to HDL ratio exceeds medically designated standards.
Ratio versus Absolute Numbers
Cholesterol ratio is informative if you want to understand your heart disease risk, but the ratio does not dictate the course of treatment your physician implements for you to return to a healthy cholesterol level. MayoClinic.com notes your total cholesterol and LDL level are more useful than the LDL to HDL ratio in guiding treatment.
LDL Levels
Your LDL is the main culprit in disease risk because this type of cholesterol can accumulate in your bloodstream, contributing to plaque buildup in your arteries, which can lead to blockages in blood flow and eventually to atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. The higher your LDL level, the greater your risk of heart attack or stroke. Optimal LDL is 100 mg/dL or less; you remain in a safe zone if your level is 100 to 129 mg/dL. A result of 130 to 159 mg/dL borders on high. You reach the danger zone when LDL is 160 to 189 mg/dL or higher.
HDL Levels
High-density lipoprotein cleanses your bloodstream and acts as a scavenger to LDL; therefore, high HDL is optimal for heart health. Generally, the higher your HDL, the lower your LDL. An HDL level of 60 mg/dL and above is cardio-protective. However, the danger zone for women is an HDL of 50 mg/dL or less and for men, it is 40 mg/dL or less.
Total Cholesterol Level
Total cholesterol includes testing both LDL and HDL. You are at a safe level, if you test at a total of 200 mg/dL or less. A level of 200 to 239 mg/dL is borderline high; you are in the danger zone with twice the risk of developing heart disease at 240 mg/dL and above, notes the American Heart Association.
Ratio Calculation and Tips
Calculate your cholesterol ratio by dividing your HDL level into your total cholesterol. For instance, a total cholesterol of 200 mg/dL with an HDL of 50 mg/dL puts you at 4-to-1, which is safe. If you have a total cholesterol of 240 mg/dL with an HDL of 40 the ratio is 6-to-1, which is the danger zone. In addition to medical recommendations, improve your cholesterol with a diet low in saturated fats and high in fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Lose extra weight and engage in daily physical activity to boost your HDL. If you smoke consider quitting with the help of your physician and limit your alcohol consumption.
References
- American Heart Association; What Your Cholesterol Levels Mean
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: High Blood Cholesterol
- MayoClinic.com; Cholesterol Ratio; Is it Important?; Thomas Behrenbeck, M.D.; Jan. 8, 2010
- Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide; LDL Cholesterol; Low, Lower and Lower Still; 2004
- MayoClinic.com; HDL Cholesterol; How to Boost Your Good Cholesterol; Mayo Clinic Staff; June 4, 2011
