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Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest foods. There are two main types:
- LDL cholesterol - the "bad" cholesterol that can build up in your arteries and increase your risk for heart disease and stroke
- HDL cholesterol - the "good" cholesterol that helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries
When we talk about cholesterol levels, we're referring to the amount of each type of cholesterol in your blood. Here are normal levels:
- Total cholesterol - less than 200 mg/dL is desirable. Between 200-239 mg/dL is borderline high. 240 mg/dL and above is considered high.
- LDL cholesterol - less than 100 mg/dL is ideal. 130-159 mg/dL is borderline high. 160 mg/dL and above is considered high.
- HDL cholesterol - 60 mg/dL and above is desirable. Below 40 mg/dL (for men) or 50 mg/dL (for women) is considered too low and increases risk.
Why do cholesterol levels matter?
High LDL and low HDL levels indicate a greater risk for heart disease and stroke down the road. Fortunately, cholesterol levels can often be improved through lifestyle changes:
- Eat a diet low in saturated and trans fats
- Increase intake of omega-3 fatty acids from fish and plants
- Exercise regularly to help raise HDL levels
- Lose excess weight
- Quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake
In some cases, medication may also be recommended to help manage high cholesterol. Work with your doctor and ask about having regular cholesterol checks. Catching and addressing problems early makes a big difference!
A few other key points about cholesterol:
- High triglyceride levels should also be addressed
- Kids and teens should have cholesterol tested too
- Women tend to have higher total cholesterol levels after menopause
- "Good" HDL levels tend to be naturally higher in women
Keeping your cholesterol levels within a healthy range takes work, but it pays off! Lowering high cholesterol reduces plaque buildup in arteries and your risk of heart attack and stroke down the road.