Understanding Cholesterol Levels: What Your Numbers Mean

Cholesterol plays a crucial role in your body, contributing to cell structure, hormone production, and digestion. However, having too much or too little of certain types of cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease and other health complications. Understanding your cholesterol levels is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health and overall wellness.

In this blog, we’ll break down what cholesterol is, the different types, how to interpret your cholesterol numbers, and tips for keeping your levels in a healthy range. At CCCHC, we’re here to empower you with the knowledge and care needed to take control of your health.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your blood. It is produced by your liver and also comes from the foods you eat. While your body needs cholesterol to function properly, having unbalanced levels can be harmful.

There are two primary types of cholesterol:

• Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, LDL can build up on the walls of your arteries, forming plaque and narrowing blood flow.
• High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as “good” cholesterol, HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from your bloodstream and transport it to the liver for disposal.

Triglycerides, another type of fat in the blood, are often included in cholesterol tests. Elevated triglyceride levels, combined with high LDL or low HDL, can increase the risk of heart disease.

The Importance of Knowing Your Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol typically has no symptoms, making regular blood tests essential for early detection and prevention of complications such as:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Peripheral artery disease

Understanding your numbers allows you to work with your healthcare provider to manage your risk and create a personalized plan for better health.

Interpreting Your Cholesterol Numbers

Cholesterol levels are measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood. Here’s what your test results may include:

1. Total Cholesterol

• Desirable: Less than 200 mg/dL
• Borderline High: 200–239 mg/dL
• High: 240 mg/dL or higher

This number includes both LDL and HDL cholesterol, as well as a portion of triglycerides.

2. LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol

• Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL
• Near Optimal: 100–129 mg/dL
• Borderline High: 130–159 mg/dL
• High: 160–189 mg/dL
• Very High: 190 mg/dL or higher

High LDL levels are a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

3. HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol

• Low (Poor): Less than 40 mg/dL for men; less than 50 mg/dL for women
• Good: 40–59 mg/dL
• Optimal: 60 mg/dL or higher

Higher HDL levels are better, as they help protect against heart disease.

4. Triglycerides

• Normal: Less than 150 mg/dL
• Borderline High: 150–199 mg/dL
• High: 200–499 mg/dL
• Very High: 500 mg/dL or higher

Elevated triglycerides can increase your risk of heart disease, especially when combined with other factors.

Factors Affecting Cholesterol Levels

Several factors influence your cholesterol levels, including:

• Diet: Foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can raise LDL levels.
• Weight: Being overweight or obese can increase LDL and triglycerides while lowering HDL.
• Physical Activity: Regular exercise can improve HDL levels.
• Age and Gender: Cholesterol levels naturally increase with age. Men tend to have lower HDL levels than women, but women’s LDL levels often rise after menopause.
• Genetics: Family history plays a role in cholesterol levels and how your body processes fats.
• Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, and liver or kidney disease can affect cholesterol.

Tips for Managing Cholesterol Levels

Maintaining a healthy cholesterol balance is key to reducing your risk of heart disease. Here’s how you can manage your levels:

1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

• Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Limit saturated fats, trans fats, and added sugars.
• Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds.

2. Stay Physically Active
   Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like walking, cycling, and swimming can help raise HDL and lower LDL and triglycerides.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
   Losing even a small amount of weight can improve cholesterol levels and overall health.
4. Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol
   Smoking lowers HDL levels and damages blood vessels, while excessive alcohol intake can raise triglycerides.
5. Take Medications if Prescribed
   For some individuals, lifestyle changes may not be enough. Medications like statins can help lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations.

When to Get Your Cholesterol Checked

The American Heart Association recommends cholesterol testing:

• Every 4–6 years for adults aged 20 and older with no known risk factors.
• More frequently for individuals with risk factors such as family history, obesity, smoking, or diabetes.

Children and teens may also need testing if they have risk factors. At CCCHC, we offer comprehensive cholesterol screenings to help you stay on top of your health.

Conclusion

Understanding your cholesterol levels is an essential step in preventing heart disease and achieving optimal health. By knowing what your numbers mean and taking proactive steps to manage them, you can reduce your risk of complications and live a healthier, more active life.

At CCCHC, we’re committed to providing the education, support, and medical care you need to maintain your well-being. Schedule a cholesterol screening with us today and take control of your heart health!

Schedule a Cholesterol Screening in LA

Take charge of your health with CCCHC! Our expert team is here to help you understand your cholesterol levels and create a personalized plan for better wellness. Contact us today to schedule your cholesterol screening and start your journey to a healthier heart.