High and Low Cholesterol Levels

Has your doctor told you that you have high cholesterol? One in five Americans have it. Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that builds up in the walls of your arteries. Left unchecked, it can cause the blood flow to the heart to be slowed down or blocked, possibly causing a heart attack. Other problems can be diabetes, stroke and erectile dysfunction.

Not all cholesterol is bad. Within your total cholesterol levels and LDL (bad) and HDL (good) cholesterol. HDL, which is considered good cholesterol, actually protects against heart disease, so higher numbers are better, when it comes to HDL. Less than 40 mg/dL is considered low, and a risk for heart disease. A better level is above 60 mg/dL.

Total Cholesterol Level	Category
Less than 200 mg/dL	Desirable
200-239 mg/dL	Borderline High
240 mg/dL and above	High

LDL Cholesterol Level	LDL Cholesterol Category
Less than 100 mg/dL	Optimal
100-129 mg/dL	Near optimal/above optimal
130-159 mg/dL	Borderline high
160-189 mg/dL	High
190 mg/dL and above	Very high

Triglycerides are another type of fat in your blood. Your triglyceride level should be less than 150. Higher levels increase your risk for heart disease.

Unfortunately, high cholesterol usually shows no symptoms, so most people don't realize they have it until their cholesterol levels are checked by a doctor. Your cholesterol should be tested every five years after age 20.

Some people can control their cholesterol with diet and natural supplements, while others have to be put on medication.

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