Understanding Your Cholesterol Reading

Cholesterol By the Numbers

While many of us know that high cholesterol can be bad for your health, you may find yourself wondering what levels are considered normal. In light of National Cholesterol Education Month, the health experts at ATRIO Health Plans are here to help you understand your numbers.

What is Cholesterol?

Total Cholesterol

Total cholesterol refers to the total amount of cholesterol that is found in your blood. This measurement includes both LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels.

LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)

Commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol, LDL makes up most of the cholesterol in your body. High amounts of this type of cholesterol can increase your risk for cardiovascular health issues like heart attacks and stroke.

LDL can be found in foods like:

• Fried foods
• Fatty cuts of meat
• Butter
• Processed foods
• Fast food
• Full-fat dairy products

HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)

HDL is considered “good” cholesterol as it helps to absorb LDL and delivers it to the liver, where it can be flushed from the body. Opposite LDL, having higher HDL levels helps to reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Although the body produces its own HDL, you can also get more HDL into your system by eating the foods like:

• Whole grains
• Nuts
• Beans
• Okra
• Apples
• Grapes
• Strawberries
• Fatty fish

Healthy Cholesterol Ranges

Your cholesterol reading is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Here are the level levels of cholesterol based on your age and gender:

Men Over 20

For men over the age of 20, the following cholesterol levels are considered healthy and ideal:

• Total cholesterol: 125 to 200mg/dL
• LDL: Less than 100mg/dL
• HDL: 40 mg/dL or higher

Women Over 20

For women over the age of 20, the following cholesterol levels are considered healthy and ideal:

• Total cholesterol: 125 to 200mg/dL
• LDL: Less than 100mg/dL
• HDL: 50 mg/dL or higher

If you have concerns when it comes to your cholesterol levels and how you can effectively manage them, be sure to reach out to your primary care provider to discuss your unique health needs.