Cholesterol levels are one of the major risk factors for heart disease. Having high cholesterol increases your risk of developing cardiovascular problems like heart attacks and strokes. But what cholesterol level is considered too high?
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that travels through your bloodstream. Your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, but having high cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a condition where plaque builds up inside your arteries. This narrows your arteries and makes it harder for blood to flow through. The plaque can also break off and cause heart attacks and strokes.
There are two main types of cholesterol:
- LDL cholesterol: Also called “bad” cholesterol, LDL cholesterol builds up in your arteries.
- HDL cholesterol: Known as “good” cholesterol, HDL cholesterol carries cholesterol from other parts of your body back to your liver. High levels of HDL can lower your risk for heart disease.
Ideal Cholesterol Levels
When you get a cholesterol test, you’ll receive your total cholesterol level as well as individual levels of LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. Here are the ideal levels, according to the American Heart Association:
| Type | Ideal Level |
|---|---|
| Total cholesterol | Less than 200 mg/dL |
| LDL cholesterol | Less than 100 mg/dL |
| HDL cholesterol | 60 mg/dL or higher |
| Triglycerides | Less than 150 mg/dL |
As you can see, you want your total and LDL cholesterol to be on the lower side. But for HDL cholesterol, higher levels are better.
Borderline and High Cholesterol Levels
If your cholesterol levels are close to or above 200 mg/dL, you may have borderline or high cholesterol. Here’s a breakdown of borderline and high cholesterol levels:
Borderline High Cholesterol
- Total cholesterol: 200-239 mg/dL
- LDL cholesterol: 130-159 mg/dL
High Cholesterol
- Total cholesterol: 240 mg/dL and above
- LDL cholesterol: 160-189 mg/dL
Very High Cholesterol
- Total cholesterol: Over 320 mg/dL
- LDL cholesterol: 190 mg/dL and above
Keep in mind that these ranges are meant as general guidelines. Your doctor will look at your cholesterol levels, along with other risk factors like smoking, obesity, and family history, to determine your risk for heart disease.
How Often to Check Cholesterol Levels
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends getting your cholesterol checked regularly from age 20 onwards. Here are the recommended screening guidelines:
- Men ages 20-35: Get tested at least once every 5 years
- Men ages 35-65: Get tested every 1-2 years
- Men over 65: Get tested annually
- Women ages 20-45: Get tested at least once every 5 years if at normal risk
- Women over 45: Get tested annually
People with heart disease, diabetes, or high cholesterol should be tested more frequently. Talk to your doctor about how often you need your cholesterol checked based on your medical history.
How to Lower High Cholesterol
If you have high cholesterol, your doctor will likely recommend lifestyle changes first to help bring your levels down. This includes:
- Following a heart-healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats
- Exercising regularly
- Losing weight if overweight or obese
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your doctor may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications like statins. These medications work by reducing the production of cholesterol in your liver.
Key Takeaways
- Total cholesterol levels above 200 mg/dL are considered borderline or high.
- LDL cholesterol is the “bad” kind and levels above 100 mg/dL increase heart disease risk.
- Get your cholesterol checked regularly from age 20 onwards based on screening guidelines.
- High cholesterol is treated through lifestyle changes and potentially cholesterol-lowering medications.
Knowing your cholesterol levels is important for assessing your risk for cardiovascular disease. Work with your doctor to keep your cholesterol in a healthy range.