Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in every cell of the human body. It plays a vital role in creating cell membranes and producing hormones, vitamin D, and bile acid.

There are two types of cholesterol, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein).

Why is Cholesterol Important?

Having a balanced level of cholesterol is crucial for maintaining good health. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

On the other hand, having sufficient levels of HDL cholesterol can help remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems.

What are the Recommended Cholesterol Levels?

The American Heart Association recommends the following cholesterol levels:.

Total cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL
HDL cholesterol: Greater than 40 mg/dL for men and greater than 50 mg/dL for women
LDL cholesterol: Less than 100 mg/dL
Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL

How to Get a Clear View of Your Cholesterol Levels?

If you are concerned about your cholesterol levels, the first step is to get them tested.

A cholesterol test, also known as a lipid panel or lipid profile, measures the levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides in your blood.

Who Should Get a Cholesterol Test?

The American Heart Association recommends getting a cholesterol test every four to six years for adults aged 20 and above.

However, if you have a family history of high cholesterol, heart disease, or stroke, or if you have other risk factors such as obesity or diabetes, your doctor may recommend getting tested more frequently.

How to Prepare for a Cholesterol Test?

Before the test, you may be asked to fast for 9 to 12 hours. This means that you cannot eat or drink anything except water during this time. You should also avoid alcohol and strenuous exercise 24 hours before the test.

What Happens During a Cholesterol Test?

A cholesterol test involves the following steps:.

A healthcare provider will clean a small area of your arm and insert a needle to draw a blood sample.
The blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
You will be asked to wait for the results.

What Do the Results Mean?

Your cholesterol levels will be reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Here is what the results mean:.

Total cholesterol

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

HDL cholesterol

Less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women: Poor
50 mg/dL and above for women and 40 mg/dL and above for men: Good

LDL cholesterol

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

Triglycerides

Less than 150 mg/dL: Normal
150 to 199 mg/dL: Borderline high
200 to 499 mg/dL: High
500 mg/dL and above: Very high

What Can You Do to Improve Your Cholesterol Levels?

If your cholesterol levels are not within the recommended range, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to improve them:.

Eat a healthy, low-fat, and low-cholesterol diet
Exercise regularly
Lose weight if you are overweight or obese
Quit smoking
Manage stress

When to Seek Medical Help?

If your cholesterol levels are dangerously high, your doctor may recommend medications such as statins to lower them. However, these medications can have side effects, so it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

If you experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or numbness in your arms or legs, seek medical help immediately as these may be signs of a heart attack or stroke.

Conclusion

Cholesterol plays an important role in maintaining good health, but high levels of LDL cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Getting a cholesterol test is the first step in identifying your risk.

With lifestyle changes and medications, you can improve your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of cardiovascular problems.