When you have a clogged drain in your kitchen or bathroom, it takes a long time for water to flow down smoothly. The same happens when the veins in your body are clogged due to elevated cholesterol levels; Nutrients, oxygen, and blood fail to flow efficiently, causing disturbances in your body processes and overall health. This is why it is best to be aware of how much bad and good cholesterol are in your body, and then you can take necessary actions.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fat-like waxy substance that is found in the cells in your body. Your body will make all the cholesterol that it needs. Your body needs it to help make hormones, and vitamin D, the substances that help your body digest foods. Cholesterol can be classified by LDL and HDL. LDL is low-density lipoprotein which is the bad kind of cholesterol, HDL is high-density lipoprotein which is the good kind of cholesterol.
What happens if the cholesterol levels come back high?
High cholesterol levels can be caused due to lifestyle choices such as food intake. High levels can put one at risk of having a heart attack. If levels cannot be changed when adjusting the diet, prescription meds will then be prescribed by your physician to help get it under control.
What are the cholesterol ranges?
| Normal cholesterol levels | 200 mg/dl (milligrams per deciliter) |
|---|---|
| Borderline high | 200-239 mg/dl |
| High levels | 240 mg/dl and above |
| LDL (normal levels) | Should be less than 100 mg/dl |
| LDL (borderline high) | 130-159 mg/dl |
| LDL (high levels) | 160-189 mg/dl |
| LDL (very high levels) | 190 mg/dl or higher |
| HDL | 60 mg/dl or higher is normal |
| HDL level | 40 mg/dl this is low and would be considered to be at high risk of heart disease |
| HDL (borderline low) | 41-59 mg/dl |
Know Your Cholesterol Levels, Keep Track of Your Health
Cholesterol can either be good or bad, and too much bad cholesterol is a serious concern to your health. The good news is that you can undergo a lab test that will help you gain an understanding of your existing cholesterol level. By following the right diet, exercising regularly, and getting your cholesterol level checked, you can keep medical conditions at bay and achieve total wellness.