What are acceptable cholesterol numbers?

Ah, cholesterol – the good and bad of it. It has been a notorious topic for decades now in the health industry. Everyone knows they should stay away from ‘bad’ cholesterol because it can cause all kinds of issues including heart disease, stroke etc.

So how does one know what their acceptable cholesterol numbers are? That’s precisely what we’re here to find out! Let’s dig into it:

The Basics Of Cholesterol

Before diving deep into individual figures, let us first understand what this thing called cholesterol is!

Cholesterol is essentially a fatty substance that is produced in our liver- so yes, there are no two ways about it: it’s fat. However, don’t hate on it just yet as our body needs some amount of fat to regulate healthy functioning.

Some foods such as dairy products, meat and eggs have high amounts of cholesterols whereas some do not contain any at all (such as fruits or vegetables).

There are three types of cholesterols:

LDL –

Low-density lipoprotein or considered by many experts as the infamous “Bad Boy” typically clogs arteries walls with plaque leading to atherosclerosis, which increases your chances for stroke/heart attack!

HDL –

High-density Lipoproteins also known as “The Good One”. This type absorbs LDLs and helps remove them from your blood vessels reducing risks caused by blockages.

VLDL –

Very low-density lipoproteins – They distribute triglycerides throughout our body’s bloodstream associated with an increased risk factor for cardiovascular disorders when overproduced.

Best Time To Get Checked Your Cholesterol Levels

Now that you’ve got a hang-on-canopy ride on the basics; here comes another most crucial part –

When Do You Go For A Test?

Experts recommend every adult gets tested once after 25 years-old and then every five years. However, if you are considered high-risk, such as smokers or those who constantly take medications for blood pressure/stroke – an annual check-up is strongly suggested!

Your doctor may suggest different test schedules based on age/medical history.

What Are Acceptable Cholesterol Numbers?

Here comes the million-dollar question.. what exactly constitutes ‘good’ cholesterol numbers? Well to get straight to it:

LDL

The highest range of your LDL shouldn’t exceed 190mg/dL, but ideally be less than 130mg/dL due to a higher correlation with risks associated with heart disease and stroke. Very High levels beyond 160 mg may also lead your Doctor considering drug therapies!

HDL

Since this one’s favorable “Good Cholesterol” towards our general wellbeing – aim higher!! Generally over 60 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) is best overall true measure of healthy lipid profiles in men/women alike.

However, under 40 mg/dl increases chances of developing heart disease and thus pointing out that very low HDL drives up Cardiovascular Risks factors making medication intervention essential!, Doctors might prescribe Niacin or A therapeutic Lifestyle Change (TLC) which includes dietary changes/exercise!

HDL Levels above these figures serve better protection against cardiovascular disorders but examine other factors and risk thresholds themselves..

Total Cholesterol

While referred more often overall amongst others; it comprises both “good” and “bad” transporting lipoproteins within – therefore doctors advise keeping levels below 200 milligrams per decilitre(d1) while giving equal consideration maintaining desirable homeostasis between individualised ratios of both types evaluated here alongside medical history from each patient!

Anything lower than ~|150-170m>g/D1 requires Medical Attention Immediately seeing them abnormally deteriorating health could at times not allow enough time beforehand managing any upcoming ailments…

Conclusion

Well folks, there we have it- a mini crash course on Cholesterol levels.

To wrap things up as lively and undull-y possible; try to consider healthier lifestyle choices before exploring medication options – consistent exercise, dietary modifications such as more fiber consumption and less processed foods could do wonders in contributing to healthy lipid profiles!!!