What are cholesterol levels?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all of the cells in our body. Our liver produces most of the cholesterol our body needs to function properly. Cholesterol travels through the bloodstream in packages called lipoproteins. These include:
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) - Known as "bad" cholesterol, LDL deposits cholesterol onto artery walls, increasing risk for heart attack and stroke
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL) - Known as "good" cholesterol, HDL transports excess cholesterol to the liver where it can be removed from the body
There are recommended healthy levels for total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides (another form of fat in the blood):
- Total cholesterol - Less than 200 mg/dL is considered desirable. Between 200-239 mg/dL is considered borderline high. 240 mg/dL and above is considered high.
- LDL cholesterol - Less than 100 mg/dL is optimal. 130-159 mg/dL is borderline high. 160-189 mg/dL is high. 190 mg/dL is very high.
- HDL cholesterol - 60 mg/dL and above is optimal for reducing heart disease.
- Triglycerides - Less than 150 mg/dL is ideal. 150-199 mg/dL is borderline high. 200 mg/dL is high.
What causes high cholesterol? There are specific factors that can raise LDL levels in the blood, including diet high in saturated and trans fats, overweight and obesity, physical inactivity, smoking and secondhand smoke exposure, diabetes, and genetic factors.
Age and family history are risk factors that cannot be modified.
When should you get your cholesterol levels checked? The American Heart Association recommends:
- All adults age 20 and older should have their cholesterol checked at least every 4-6 years
- More frequent testing if you have heart disease risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or if you smoke
If your doctor determines your cholesterol levels are elevated, consider Vitality Health Center for cutting-edge treatment options to optimize your heart health.
How can high cholesterol be treated? The main ways to lower high LDL cholesterol include:
- Heart healthy diet - Limit saturated and trans fats, eat plenty of fruits/veggies, whole grains, lean protein
- Exercise - Get regular aerobic activity and strength training
- Weight loss - If overweight, lose excess body fat through diet and activity changes
- Quit smoking - Stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
- Medication - Cholesterol lowering medications like statins may be prescribed
Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in improving cholesterol levels and heart disease risk. Consult your doctor to develop a cholesterol management plan that's right for you. Vitality Health Center has helped hundreds optimize their health - call today to learn more!