(RxWiki News) Understanding cholesterol is the first step in managing your cholesterol levels.
The best way to know your cholesterol level is to have a fasting blood test known as a lipid panel. A lipid panel examines total cholesterol, LDL (low-density lipoprotein), HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and triglyceride levels. These categories are examined below.
Total cholesterol:
- A measure of the total amount of cholesterol in your blood
- Based on the HDL, LDL and triglyceride numbers
LDL cholesterol:
- Majority of the body’s cholesterol
- Delivers cholesterol to the body
- Known as “bad” cholesterol because having high levels can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries
HDL cholesterol:
- Absorbs cholesterol and carries it back to the liver, where cholesterol is removed from the body
- Known as “good” cholesterol because having high levels can reduce the risk for heart disease and stroke
Triglycerides:
- Type of fat found in your blood, which your body uses for energy
- High levels of triglycerides with low HDL cholesterol or high LDL cholesterol can increase heart attack and stroke risk
To prepare for your lipid panel, you must "fast" (not eat or drink anything) for at least eight hours before the blood test. You can drink water during the fast. Discuss specific fasting requirements with your doctor or laboratory.
To get an idea of what your results might mean, see the chart below:
| Total Cholesterol Level | Total Cholesterol Category |
| Less than 200 mg/dL | Desirable |
| 200-239 mg/dL | Borderline high |
| 240 mg/dL and above | High |
| LDL ("Bad") Cholesterol Level | LDL Cholesterol Category |
| Less than 100 mg/dL | Optimal |
| 100-129 mg/dL | Near optimal/above optimal |
| 130-159 mg/dL | Borderline high |
| 160-189 mg/dL | High |
| 190 mg/dL and above | Very high |
| HDL ("Good") Cholesterol Level | HDL Cholesterol Category |
| Less than 40 mg/dL | A major risk factor for heart disease |
| 40-59 mg/dL | The higher, the better |
| 60 mg/dL and higher | Protective against heart disease |
| Triglycerides | Triglycerides Category |
| Less than 150 mg/dL | Normal level |
| 150-199 mg/dL | Borderline high |
| 200-499 mg/dL | High |
| 500 mg/dL or higher | Very high |
Speak with your health care provider about your numbers and how best to manage your cholesterol.
Written By Anyssa Garza, PharmD, BCMAS
