Cholesterol: Interpreting the Numbers

There are actually three values given when a cholesterol test is completed; total cholesterol, LDL (low density lipoprotein), and HDL (high density lipoprotein). It can be confusing to interpret your overall cholesterol levels.

Total Cholesterol

The total cholesterol level is a combination of the LDL and HDL levels. Cholesterol is required by the body in adequate amounts, however, HDL is considered to be “good” cholesterol, having overall positive health benefits, while LDL is considered to be “bad” cholesterol, having overall negative health effects if not controlled and maintained at proper levels. Total cholesterol levels of less than 200 is considered desirable, 200-239 is considered borderline high, and above 240 is considered to be high.

High Cholesterol and Heart Disease

Cholesterol is maintained by the blood as it is a requirement for specific functions. However, high cholesterol levels can lead to a build up on the walls of arteries. This is known as atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is associated with a clogging of the arteries than can block proper blood flow to the heart, resulting in an oxygen deficiency.

A blockage of blood to the heart can lead to chest pain and ultimately a heart attack. Symptoms of high cholesterol can be limited; the only way to really determine high levels of cholesterol is to have it tested by a physician.

LDL (Low Density Lipoproteins)

LDL is considered to be “bad” cholesterol. The presence of too much LDL is typically associated with the majority of all blockages in the arteries that can develop into a heart attack. A LDL of less than 100 is considered to be optimal and desired, 100-129 is considered nearly optimal/above optimal, 130-159 is borderline high, 160-189 is high, and anything greater than 190 is considered very high.

Lifestyle Changes: Lowering LDL

• Weight Loss: If you are overweight, gradual weight loss can lead to an overall decrease in LDL levels.
• Increase Physical Activity: Individuals that exercise, especially aerobic exercise, are associated with lower occurrence rates of potentially dangerous high LDL levels. Small and gradual changes to your lifestyle to include more physical activity can help decrease LDL levels. As little as 30 minutes per day is all it takes.
• Dietary Changes: The food you eat is important. It provides all the vitamins, nutrients, minerals, and essential amino acids your body needs. A diet low in fats especially saturated and trans fats can help lower LDL levels. Mono saturated fats are generally considered to be the best for intake.
• Age/Gender: Age and gender both have roles in LDL levels. Typically LDL levels increase with age, and women tend to have lower total cholesterol levels with higher LDL levels after menopause.
• Genetic Factors: Your inherited genetic factors do have some control over your cholesterol levels. Due to this, lifestyle changes may not always be enough, and medications may need to be prescribed.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions are associated with higher cholesterol levels; kidney disease, liver disease, and hypothyroidism particularly.
• Medication Use: Certain medications have been developed to increase HDL and lower LDL. These include some steroids and progestins.

There are a variety of ways to lower overall LDL levels. Typically, the majority of these lifestyle changes also lead to an overall increase of HDL levels, which are also associated with overall health benefits.

Sources:
http://www.medicinenet.com/cholesterol/article.htm
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cholesterol/CL00002
http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/guide/lower-cholesterol-risk