Cholesterol levels - Wellness Clinic

What are Cholesterol Levels?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance 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 main types of cholesterol:

• LDL cholesterol - often called "bad" cholesterol, can build up in your arteries and increase your risk for heart disease and stroke.
• HDL cholesterol - often called "good" cholesterol, helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries.

When there is too much LDL cholesterol in your blood, it can slowly build up in the inner walls of your arteries. Together with other substances, it can form plaque - a thick, hard deposit that can narrow your arteries and make 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.

So, what are healthy cholesterol levels? Here are the key numbers:

• Total cholesterol - Less than 200 mg/dL is considered desirable. Between 200-239 mg/dL is borderline high. Over 240 mg/dL is considered high.
• LDL cholesterol - Ideally less than 100 mg/dL. 130-159 mg/dL is borderline high. 160-189 mg/dL is high. Over 190 mg/dL is very high.
• HDL cholesterol - 40 mg/dL or higher for men; 50 mg/dL or higher for women is considered good.

Lower HDL levels increase the risk for heart disease. Health experts think HDL carries cholesterol away from arteries and back to the liver for removal from the body. If levels drop too low, this process may not work as well.

What can affect cholesterol levels? Genetics play a role, but lifestyle choices also impact cholesterol. Eating saturated and trans fats can raise LDL levels. Things that can improve cholesterol numbers include:

• Losing extra weight
• Exercising regularly
• Quitting smoking
• Eating more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
• Consuming foods with healthy fats like fish, nuts, and olive oil

For some, medication may be needed in addition to lifestyle changes to reach target cholesterol goals. Doctors at Wellness Clinic can determine this based on your risk factors for heart disease and stroke.