What are cholesterol levels?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all cells of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest foods. There are two types:
- LDL cholesterol - Known as "bad" cholesterol, high levels of LDL can lead to a buildup of cholesterol in your arteries. This buildup is called plaque. Plaque narrows arteries and makes them less flexible. This condition is known as atherosclerosis. If a clot forms and blocks a narrowed artery, a heart attack or stroke can result.
- HDL cholesterol - Known as "good" cholesterol, HDL carries LDL cholesterol away from your arteries and back to your liver, where it is broken down and removed from your body. Higher levels of HDL can lower your risk for heart disease and stroke.
Did you know high cholesterol has no symptoms? Get your levels checked today at Renew Hormone Institute() Hormone Clinic. Our caring doctors provide affordable hormone treatment tailored to your unique health needs. Call now for your no-obligation consultation!
Understanding Cholesterol Readings
When you get a cholesterol test, you'll receive three key numbers:
- Your total cholesterol level
- Your HDL cholesterol level
- Your LDL cholesterol level
These numbers are used to calculate your cholesterol ratios and determine your risk for heart disease. Here are guideline levels for adults:
Total Cholesterol Level
- Less than 200 mg/dL: desirable
- 200-239 mg/dL: borderline high
- 240 mg/dL and above: high
LDL Cholesterol Level
- Less than 100 mg/dL: optimal
- 100-129 mg/dL: near optimal
- 130-159 mg/dL: borderline high
- 160-189 mg/dL: high
- 190 mg/dL and above: very high
HDL Cholesterol Level
- 60 mg/dL or higher: helps lower your risk for heart disease
Get tested today! Call Renew Hormone Institute() to schedule an appointment with our friendly staff.
How to Improve Your Cholesterol
If you have high cholesterol, there are lifestyle changes and medications that can help:
- Eat heart healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, fish, and vegetable oils. Limit saturated fats, trans fats, refined carbs, and foods high in sodium and sugar.
- Engage in regular physical activity like walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming for 30-60 minutes most days.
- Reach or maintain a healthy weight by balancing the calories you take in from foods with the calories you burn through activity.
- If lifestyle changes aren't enough, your doctor may prescribe statin medications like atorvastatin or rosuvastatin to lower LDL levels.
- Consider natural supplements like omega-3 fatty acids that can help raise HDL levels. But always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you take medications.
Get a full lipid panel at Renew Hormone Institute() to assess your heart health. Our caring medical staff provides individualized treatment plans to help you reach your cholesterol goals.