Making Sense of Cholesterol Readings

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Having your level of cholesterol read is very important for your health. Cholesterol readings consist of total cholesterol, low level lipoprotein cholesterol levels (LDL cholesterol), triglycerides and high density lipoprotein cholesterol level (HDL cholesterol). When you are having your cholesterol level checked by your doctor you should have all 3 types checked. The desirable total cholesterol readings are 200mg/dL with a borderline limit of 200 mg/dL to 239mg/dL. You are at risk of developing heart disease if you have a total of 240mg/dL and above cholesterol reading.

LDL Cholesterol Levels

Low density lipoprotein is more commonly known as the “bad” cholesterol. At high levels it may cause deposits in the walls of the arteries which increases the risk of heart disease. The desirable LDL cholesterol level is below 200 milligrams per deciliter of blood or 200 mg/dL. The borderline limit of LDL is between 200-239mg/dL. It is dangerous if you have a LDL cholesterol level of above 240mg/dL.

HDL Cholesterol Levels

High density lipoprotein is the “good” cholesterol. High density lipoprotein washes away excess cholesterol from the tissues to the liver. The liver then breaks it down and it becomes part of the bile for removal. An HDL level of 40mg/dL is suggested. You must maintain your HDL level within 40mg/dL to 45mg/dL. It should not go below 40mg/dL. Levels above 60mg/dL are said to protect the heart and is beneficial to brain functions because it protects the cerebral blood vessels as well as coronary vessels.

Level of Triglycerides

Triglycerides are another type of fat. It is accumulated as fat in our body that flows in the blood stream. Almost all of the fats in our diet are triglycerides. Triglycerides are one of the main factors of heart disease. At high levels, it thickens the blood and may possibly lead to heart attack or stroke due to blood clotting. It is best that you maintain your triglyceride level at 150 or below with a borderline limit of 150 to 199. It should not exceed 200.

In maintaining your cholesterol level, remember, there are no ideal cholesterol readings per se. They vary for each person. It will depend on the individual’s risk factor (family history, sex, health condition and age.). Though experts suggest that having a total of over 240mg/dL is an indication that a lifestyle change is needed, because having higher than this increases the risk of developing heart problems.

National guidelines recommended that those who have a high blood cholesterol level should be checked every 1 or 2 years.

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