Cholesterol Levels - LDL, HDL, Triglyceride

Total blood cholesterol is the most common measurement of cholesterol in the blood. It's measured in milligrams per deciliter of blood. Blood cholesterol for adults is divided into levels.

To interpret your cholesterol number risk factors like age, gender, family history, race, smoking, high blood pressure, physical inactivity, obesity and diabetes must be in counted for. The effects of high cholesterol are different for each person.

Even with the best of diets cholesterol doesn't always normalize your levels. Some people have defect in the liver enzymes that regulates the cholesterol. They may need medication to help them achieve a normal level.

To find out your cholesterol number a lipoprotein profile is recommended. The test is normally done after a 9-12 hour fast and is recommended for everyone of age 20 and older.

Lipoprotein profile reveals the following:

Total cholesterol levels - The sum of all the cholesterol in the blood. (High level equals higher risk factor)

LDL (bad cholesterol) - Low-Density Lipoproteins. Carries most of the cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood to the arteries. (High level equals higher risk factor). If you have a high level you need to reduce it. A good diet is a good way to start. A normal desirable level is 100 mg/dL.

HDL (good cholesterol) - High-Density Lipoproteins. HDL keeps cholesterol from building up in the arteries. (High level equals lower risk factor). Best way to increase HDL is to increase the monounsaturated fats in your diet and/or exercise. Normal desirable level of HDL is 35 mg/dL or greater.

Triglyceride - (High level equals higher risk factor) the negative impact of raised levels of triglycerides is lower than that of LDL and HDL. Cardiovascular exercise and lower carbohydrate diets are suggested if you want to reduce triglyceride levels.

Young children 2, years or less, need more calories and should NOT be put on a low cholesterol diet.

Tip: Add soluble fiber to your diet. Soluble fibers are found in oats, fruits, vegetables and legumes. It helps reduce LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL cholesterol. For optimal results, at least two servings a day should be used.

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