As we get older it’s important to keep track of our cholesterol levels.  We all know that having too much cholesterol is bad, and can lead to serious health issues like having a stroke or heart disease, but how much is too much?  Well before we get into appropriate cholesterol levels it’s important to know a little background info on cholesterol.

Cholesterol is a basic lipid which makes up our cell membranes and there are two types.  The two different types of cholesterol we all have within us are LDL (low density lipoprotein) and HDL (high density lipoprotein).  LDL is the bad cholesterol.  It can accumulate on the walls of blood vessels which can lead to severe health problems. HDL is the healthy cholesterol and actually helps the body overcome the effects of LDL.  Ultimately, the goal is to have high HDL and low LDL.

How To Find Out Your Cholesterol Levels

Most young people assume that their cholesterol levels are just fine.  It’s a common misconception that cholesterol levels aren’t worth looking at until one is much older.  Although it is very rare to have a stroke or heart disease while you are young due to bad cholesterol, it may be building up and you may be setting yourself up for health problems as you get older.  The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP), which is endorsed by the American Heart Assoc., recommends that all people age 20 and above should check their cholesterol levels once every 5 years.

It’s pretty easy to check your cholesterol levels.  Any family doctor can perform what is called a lipoprotein profile by simply running a blood test, checking your heart rate, and blood pressure.  It is best to fast for 9 – 12 hours without food and drink to get the most accurate results of your cholesterol levels.  The test will show your cholesterol levels in milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL).

What Levels Of Cholesterol Are Considered Healthy?

Now that you know what your actual cholesterol levels are it’s important to know what they mean and whether or not the levels are healthy or not.

HDL CHART

• Less than 40 mg/dL (men), Less than 50 mg/dL (women) - This is considered a very low level of HDL and can be a major risk for heart disease.
• 60 mg/dL or higher – This is considered a high level of HDL and will help you prevent heart disease.

People who are overweight, smoke, or live sedentary lifestyles may have low HDL levels which puts them at risk for heart disease.  It’s important to eat healthy, exercise and take supplements designed to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, in order to avoid risk of heart disease.  There are many ways to lower cholesterol.

LDL CHART

• Less than 100 mg/dL – This is ideally where you want to be at to avoid any risk of heart disease.
• 100 – 129 mg/dL – Low, healthy level but could be better.
• 130 – 159 mg/dL – Borderline high, may be at risk.
• 160 – 189 mg/dL – High.
• 190 mg/dL and above – Very high, severe risk for heart disease and stroke.

It’s important to know that these levels are very general.  Depending on your exact age, sex, weight, and lifestyle they may vary.  It’s best to consult with a physician to determine whether or not your level is high and if you are at risk for heart disease. Your doctor will be able to help you get on a cholesterol lowering plan if you are at risk.

Now that you have some sort of idea of what cholesterol levels are appropriate you can make the decision on whether or not you need to focus on lowering your LDL cholesterol.  With a few simple changes such as diet and exercise you can quickly lower your LDL levels and help to raise your HDL which will lessen your risk for heart disease.  Sometimes simply taking a cholesterol-lowering supplement will give you just the edge to stay on top of your cholesterol levels and avoid any health risks.