Cholesterol levels - Balanced Hormones Clinic

- LDL cholesterol - the "bad" cholesterol that can build up in your arteries

• HDL cholesterol - the "good" cholesterol that helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries

What do cholesterol level numbers mean? There are recommended healthy levels for total, LDL, and HDL cholesterol:

• Total cholesterol - below 200 mg/dL is considered desirable. Between 200-239 mg/dL is borderline high. 240 mg/dL and above is high.
• LDL cholesterol - below 100 mg/dL is optimal. 130-159 mg/dL is borderline high. 160-189 mg/dL is high. 190 mg/dL and above is very high.
• HDL cholesterol - 60 mg/dL and above helps lower your risk for heart disease. Below 40 mg/dL (for men) and 50 mg/dL (for women) is concerning.

Why do cholesterol levels matter? High cholesterol levels, especially high LDL levels, increase your risk for heart disease and stroke. LDL cholesterol can slowly build up in the inner walls of your arteries, forming plaque that narrows the arteries and makes them less flexible. This condition is known as atherosclerosis. If a plaque ruptures, a blood clot can form and block the blood flow, causing a heart attack or stroke.

How can I improve my cholesterol levels? Here are some tips:

• Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, nuts, seeds, beans, and healthy oils like olive oil
• Limit foods high in saturated and trans fats like fatty meats, full-fat dairy, fried foods, baked goods, and snack foods
• Lose extra weight
• Exercise regularly
• Quit smoking
• Cut back on alcohol
• Take medication if prescribed by your doctor

Should I get my cholesterol checked? Health experts recommend adults aged 20 or older have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years. Those with risk factors like obesity, smoking, family history of high cholesterol or heart disease should get tested more often. Knowing your levels is key to determining your risk and what steps to take to optimize your heart health.

Let me know if you have any other questions! Getting your cholesterol under control can go a long way in preventing serious health issues down the road.