In order to understand the world of cholesterol levels and what they mean, it is essential to first understand the difference between good, bad, and total cholesterol counts. HDL or high-density lipoproteins are what we know to be "good" cholesterol. What makes it good, though, is in its composition and action. HDL is the densest type of lipoprotein because it is made primarily out of protein. It is good because it has the ability to remove cholesterol deposits from the arteries. These are also the lipoproteins that the liver sends out to steroidogenic organs, such as the testes and ovaries. LDL, or low-density lipoproteins, are known as "bad" cholesterol. LDL, as made obvious by the name, is a much lower in density protein, and is therefore distributed to the peripheral tissues of the body. Due to its higher amount of fat, this is the cholesterol type that is attributed to cardiovascular disease.
When you have your cholesterol tested, it is measured in mg/dL, which is milligrams per deciliter of blood. Generally, the doctor will be able to, or will have already, separated the test in to comprehensive charts - one for LDL Cholesterol, one for HDL Cholesterol, and one for total cholesterol (an addition of the two).
Levels of LDL cholesterol are the most important to keep in check. High levels of LDL can lead to serious heart conditions, especially for those with a genetic history of heart or cholesterol problems. For the average person, a 'normal' LDL cholesterol level should be anywhere between 110mg/dL (good) to 160mg/dL (borderline). High cholesterol is considered anywhere between 170mg/dL and 190mg/dL, with 200+mg/dL being the line for dangerously high cholesterol.
HDL cholesterol levels are different to look at, because in this category it is the higher number that is better for you. The average HDL levels should be anywhere between 45mg/dL (borderline) and 65mg/dL (protective). A HDL cholesterol level much below 45mg/dL can lead to tightened arteries, due to a lack of cleansing that is done by HDL molecules.
Total cholesterol, as mentioned above, is the sum of your two cholesterol levels, plus your triglyceride level (divided by five). On average, cholesterol should be 200mg/dL (good) to 240mg/dL (borderline). Whether made of LDL or HDL, a total cholesterol count much higher than 240mg/dL can lead to health issues, some more serious than others. It is important to remember that cholesterol plays a roll in various bodily functions - not just cardiovascular health.
Some things to keep in mind while monitoring your cholesterol levels are age, gender, and genetics. On average, men tend to have a naturally lower amount of HDL cholesterol, and therefore need to focus more on their cholesterol intake to boost their HDL levels. Age is also a factor in cholesterol, as your arteries and liver have already aged, and may need more substantial amounts of HDL, or lower amounts of LDL than the average. Finally, one must consider their genetic makeup when creating a cholesterol diet. Those with a naturally higher risk of heart disease should keep their cholesterol levels away from borderline levels, for even though they haven't hit dangerous levels for the average, genetics can play an ugly role.
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