What do Cholesterol Totals Mean?

Your total cholesterol score is a combination of several subscores (low-density and high-density lipoproteins, and triglycerides). Generally, the total score is a good indicator of your heart health and is an excellent way for you to monitor your risk for Coronary Artery Disease. Total cholesterol may be called blood cholesterol or lipid profile as well.

Ideal Total Cholesterol

• Ideally, your total cholesterol score needs to be below 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) according to the American Heart Association. And it is even better if this total score is made up of a higher ratio of high-density lipoproteins (HDLs or good type that removes artery plaque) to low-density lipoproteins (LDLs or bad type that builds artery plaque); with low triglycerides.

Borderline High Risk

• If your total cholesterol is 200- 239 mg/dl you have some risk for heart disease. This is considered borderline high risk by the American Heart Association. In other words, if combined with another risk factor like smoking, you could be increasing your chance for heart disease.

High Risk

• A total cholesterol level of 240 mg/dl and over is a high risk for heart disease. You have essentially doubled your risk of having a heart attack. This is when it would be best to find out how the subscores (HDLs, LDLs, and triglycerides) contribute to this overall score.

Casues of High Cholesterol

• Your total cholesterol level is more likely to be high if you have poor eating habits and are sedentary. Genetics, use of tobacco products, certain medications, and drinking alcohol can also increase your total cholesterol level.

Check Cholesterol Levels

• Get your cholesterol levels checked every five years at a minimum. If you have a higher total cholesterol score, your doctor may want you to test levels every six months to a year. Additionally, you will probably be advised to eat healthy low-fat foods and start an exercise program.