Understanding Cholesterol Levels: Targets, Types, and What They Mean for Your Heart
Cholesterol is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends the following optimal levels for adults aged 20 and older:
Recommended Cholesterol Levels
- Total cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL
- LDL ("bad") cholesterol: Less than 100 mg/dL
- HDL ("good") cholesterol: 60 mg/dL or higher
- Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL
What Each Component Means
- Total cholesterol is the sum of all cholesterol types in your blood.
- LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is considered "bad" because it can build up in arteries, narrowing them and increasing heart disease risk.
- HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is "good" cholesterol—it helps remove LDL from arteries.
- Triglycerides are another blood fat; high levels also raise heart disease risk.
If your numbers are outside the recommended ranges, your doctor may suggest dietary changes, increased physical activity, or medication to help lower your cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular risk.
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