Cholesterol is a type of fat that is found in the blood, and it is essential for many important bodily functions. However, too much cholesterol in the bloodstream can increase the risk of developing heart disease and stroke.

Therefore, it is important to keep an eye on your cholesterol levels, especially if you are at risk for these diseases.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is produced by the liver and can be found in certain foods, such as meat, dairy, and eggs.

It is important for many bodily functions, including the production of hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids that help digest fat. Cholesterol travels through the bloodstream on proteins called lipoproteins. The two main types of lipoproteins are LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein).

What Are Normal Cholesterol Levels?

There are different types of cholesterol measurements, and each has an associated normal range.

Total cholesterol: Less than 200mg/dL
HDL (good) cholesterol: Greater than 60mg/dL
LDL (bad) cholesterol: Less than 100mg/dL
Triglycerides: Less than 150mg/dL

If your cholesterol levels are higher than the recommended ranges, your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and exercise, or medication to help lower your cholesterol.

Who Should Monitor Their Cholesterol Levels?

Everyone should get their cholesterol levels checked at least once every five years, starting at age 20. However, certain factors can increase your risk of developing high cholesterol, and you may need to monitor your levels more often.

Age

As you age, your risk of developing high cholesterol increases. Women over age 55 and men over age 45 are at an increased risk, and they should get their cholesterol levels checked more often.

Family History

If you have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease, you may be at an increased risk. Ask your healthcare provider when you should start monitoring your cholesterol levels.

Diet

Dietary factors, such as consuming too much saturated and trans fat, can increase your risk of developing high cholesterol. If you have a diet that is high in fat, you may need to monitor your cholesterol levels more often.

Physical Inactivity

Regular exercise can help lower your cholesterol levels. If you are physically inactive, you may be at an increased risk of developing high cholesterol.

Obesity

Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of developing high cholesterol. If you are overweight or obese, you may need to monitor your cholesterol levels more often.

How Are Cholesterol Levels Measured?

A cholesterol test, also called a lipid panel or lipid profile, measures the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. The test is performed on a blood sample that is usually taken from a vein in your arm.

You will be asked to fast for 9 to 12 hours before the test. This means you should not eat or drink anything other than water during this time. Your healthcare provider may also ask about your medical history, family history, diet, and exercise habits.

These factors can all influence your cholesterol levels.

Conclusion

Monitoring your cholesterol levels is important for maintaining good heart health. Everyone should get their cholesterol levels checked at least once every five years, and certain individuals may need to monitor their levels more often.

If your cholesterol levels are higher than the recommended ranges, your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes or medication to help lower your cholesterol. Maintaining healthy habits, such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, can also help keep your cholesterol levels in check.