Cholesterol level

Cholesterol Level

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all the cells of the body. It is essential for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest foods. However, having high levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease.

Types of Cholesterol

Cholesterol travels through the bloodstream in small packages called lipoproteins, which are made of fat (lipid) on the inside and proteins on the outside. The two main types of lipoproteins are:

• Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, LDL carries cholesterol to the tissues, including the arteries. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to a buildup of cholesterol in the arteries, known as atherosclerosis.

• High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as "good" cholesterol, HDL helps remove cholesterol from the bloodstream by carrying it back to the liver, where it is processed and excreted from the body.

Measuring Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol levels are measured in milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per deciliter (dL) of blood. A lipid panel is a blood test that measures:

• Total cholesterol
• LDL cholesterol
• HDL cholesterol
• Triglycerides

The results of a lipid panel can help assess the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Recommended Cholesterol Levels

The following are general guidelines for cholesterol levels:

• Total Cholesterol:

 * Desirable: Less than 200 mg/dL
 * Borderline high: 200-239 mg/dL
 * High: 240 mg/dL and above

• LDL Cholesterol:

 * Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL
 * Near optimal/above optimal: 100-129 mg/dL
 * Borderline high: 130-159 mg/dL
 * High: 160-189 mg/dL
 * Very high: 190 mg/dL and above

• HDL Cholesterol:

 * Low: Less than 40 mg/dL (men), less than 50 mg/dL (women)
 * High: 60 mg/dL and above

Factors Affecting Cholesterol Levels

Several factors can influence cholesterol levels, including:

• Diet: Consuming saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can raise LDL levels.
• Weight: Being overweight can increase LDL and lower HDL levels.
• Physical Activity: Regular exercise can help lower LDL and raise HDL levels.
• Age and Gender: Cholesterol levels tend to rise with age. Before menopause, women usually have lower total cholesterol levels than men of the same age.
• Genetics: Family history can play a role in cholesterol levels.

Managing Cholesterol Levels

Managing cholesterol levels involves lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication. Strategies include:

• Eating a heart-healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking
• Taking medications such as statins, if prescribed by a healthcare provider

Also see

• Atherosclerosis
• Cardiovascular disease
• Lipid panel
• Statins