Cholesterol readings

Review – Why Cholesterol Readings Are So Important

Your level of cholesterol should be just right, or in other words it should be within the acceptable range. If it is too high or too low then it could mean trouble. Cholesterol readings are tests to find out where you stand. Such readings will find out your level of total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and the ratio of cholesterol. Cholesterol checks have become very important because if you are on the higher side then you are at risk of stroke and heart attack, and both of these are claiming many lives in recent times. Low levels of cholesterol can also cause a lot of problems as well. So it is best not to take a chance – a good beginning is a check to determine where you stand.

So get your reading done. Cholesterol readings will help your doctor find out your health status and based on the findings, the right treatment can be recommended. If it is determined that the cholesterol figures are on the higher side, then your doctor might ask you to exercise regularly and also change the way you eat. You should try to avoid rich fatty foods as much as possible.

Understanding Your Cholesterol Figures

Total Cholesterol: The desired level is below 200 and the borderline is between 200 and 239. You should watch it, if it is more than 240. These figures are often referred to as the “cholesterol level” and this includes both bad and good cholesterol. You can get some exercise at home or you could visit a gym to cut your excess fat.

LDL Cholesterol: The desired level is below 130 and the borderline is between 130 and 159. You are at risk if your LDL (low density lipoprotein) is more than 160. LDL is the bad cholesterol and this is responsible for plugging up the passages that carry blood within the body.

HDL Cholesterol: This works in the other way, that is, the higher it is, the better it will be. The ideal HDL (high density lipoprotein) level should be above 45 in men and above 50 among women, and the borderline is between 40 and 45. You must take immediate action if your HDL falls below 40. HDL is the good cholesterol and the one that offers protection to the heart.

Triglycerides: This is one type of fat or lipid that can be accumulated within the body if you are on a high carbohydrate or fat diet. Those who drink alcohol daily also show high levels of Triglycerides. Those who are suffering from diabetes or are resistant to insulin also show high levels of this. You should be happy if your Triglycerides are less than 150 and the borderline is between 150 and 199. However you should be worried if it is above 200.

So get a test done to determine whether your cholesterol is within the normal range or not. Cholesterol readings are a good way to determine where you stand and get your treatment started. Though anyone can be high or low in cholesterol, but it is a good idea to get it checked if you are slightly on the obese side because obesity is often linked with cholesterol problems.

As you age you should be more careful about your health because medical complications tend to be more frequent then. Cholesterol readings will help you remain on top of things. Take precautions timely and seek treatment if you are above or below normal. This is the much better approach than to take drastic action quickly.