Cholesterol levels

What is cholesterol levels?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all the cells of our body. It travels through the bloodstream in different types of carriers called lipoproteins. There are two main types of lipoproteins that carry cholesterol throughout your body:

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) - known as "bad" cholesterol because having high levels can lead to a buildup of cholesterol in your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.


• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) - known as "good" cholesterol because it carries cholesterol from other parts of your body back to your liver which then removes it. Having higher levels of HDL can lower your risk for heart disease and stroke.

Cholesterol numbers to aim for

When you get your cholesterol tested, you'll receive a lipid profile which gives you numbers for your:

• Total cholesterol


• LDL cholesterol


• HDL cholesterol


• Triglycerides

The table below shows optimal numbers to aim for, according to the American Heart Association:

| Type of Cholesterol | Optimal Level |
|-|-|
| Total Cholesterol | Less than 200 mg/dL |
| LDL Cholesterol | Less than 100 mg/dL |
| HDL Cholesterol | 60 mg/dL or higher |
| Triglycerides | Less than 150 mg/dL |

Lifestyle changes to improve cholesterol

Here are some tips to help optimize your cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes:

• Eat a heart-healthy diet - Limit saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol by eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, fish, and nuts.


• Lose extra pounds - Losing just 5–10% of your body weight can help boost HDL.


• Exercise regularly - Aim for 30 minutes a day 5 days a week. Exercise helps boost HDL cholesterol.


• Quit smoking - Quitting smoking can raise HDL cholesterol levels.


• Drink alcohol in moderation - Moderate alcohol intake has been linked with higher HDL cholesterol levels.

When to see your doctor

You should have your cholesterol levels checked every 4 to 6 years starting at age 20, or more frequently if you have risk factors like diabetes, obesity, family history of high cholesterol, or heart disease.

See your doctor if lifestyle changes after ~3 months do not help bring your numbers into the optimal ranges. Your doctor may prescribe medications like statins to help lower LDL cholesterol when diet and exercise alone aren't enough.

Let me know if you have any other questions! Wishing you the best of health.