Updated 08:27 AM,June 12,2025
Normal Cholesterol Levels
Understanding your blood cholesterol level helps predict the risk of heart disease and stroke. This is determined through a complete lipid profile test, also known as a lipid panel or blood fat map. This test measures not only cholesterol but also several other types of fats in the blood.[1] Key substances measured include:[2]
Total Cholesterol
[3]
|
Age Group
|
Desirable, low risk of heart disease
|
Borderline high, moderate risk of heart disease
|
High, high risk of heart disease
|
|
Adults
|
Less than 200 mg/dL (5.18 mmol/L)
|
200–239 mg/dL (5.18–6.18 mmol/L)
|
240 mg/dL or higher (6.22 mmol/L or higher)
|
|
Adolescents
|
Less than 190 mg/dL (4.92 mmol/L)
|
190–224 mg/dL (4.92–5.80 mmol/L)
|
225 mg/dL or higher (5.82 mmol/L or higher)
|
|
Children and teenagers
|
Less than 170 mg/dL (4.4 mmol/L)
|
170–199 mg/dL (4.40–5.16 mmol/L)
|
200 mg/dL or higher (5.17 mmol/L or higher)
|
LDL Cholesterol (Bad Cholesterol)
LDL cholesterol, scientifically known as low-density lipoprotein, is considered harmful because it builds up on artery walls and increases the risk of heart and blood vessel diseases. An LDL level of 190 mg/dL or higher is considered very high. Levels between 70 and 189 mg/dL are considered elevated in certain health conditions such as:[4]
- Diabetes diagnosed between ages 40 and 75.
- Diabetes combined with an increased risk of heart disease.
- History of heart disease, stroke, or poor circulation in the feet.
- Presence of factors that moderately or highly increase heart disease risk.
HDL Cholesterol (Good Cholesterol)
HDL cholesterol, scientifically known as high-density lipoprotein, is called 'good' or 'beneficial' cholesterol because it transports cholesterol from the bloodstream back to the liver for processing and removal. Low levels—below 40 mg/dL in men and below 50 mg/dL in women—are associated with a higher risk of heart disease.[4]
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are another type of fat found in the body. Higher triglyceride levels increase the risk of heart and blood vessel disease. Test results are interpreted as follows:[4]
- Normal level: Less than 150 mg/dL.
- High normal: 150–199 mg/dL.
- Elevated risk: 200–499 mg/dL.
- Very high risk: 500 mg/dL or more.
Other Results
The test may also show additional values:[2]
- Cholesterol to HDL ratio: This reflects the relationship between total cholesterol and beneficial cholesterol. A value below 150 is recommended.
- Very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL): These particles carry triglycerides and are considered harmful due to their high fat content. They contribute to plaque buildup in arteries. Normal VLDL levels range from 2 to 30 mg/dL.[5]
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Cholesterol Levels
While medications may be prescribed to lower cholesterol when levels are too high, doctors typically recommend first making healthy lifestyle changes. Below are key recommendations:[6]
Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet
Your diet plays a significant role in cholesterol levels. Following a heart-friendly eating plan is advised:[6]
- Include soluble fiber: Soluble fiber helps reduce cholesterol absorption. It's found in foods like oats, beans, cabbage, apples, pears, and others.
- Limit saturated fats: Reduce intake of red meat and full-fat dairy products, which are high in saturated fats. Consuming these fats raises blood cholesterol levels. Cutting down on them can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.
- Reduce trans fats: Also known as partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, these are commonly found in margarine, processed snacks, and store-bought baked goods. Trans fats increase total blood cholesterol and have been banned by health authorities since January 2021.
Stay Physically Active
Regular physical activity improves cholesterol levels. Moderate-intensity exercise boosts HDL (good) cholesterol. It’s generally recommended to engage in 30 minutes of moderate activity five times a week, or 20 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise three times a week. Always consult a doctor before starting an exercise program if you have existing health concerns. Exercise also aids in weight management. Recommended activities include cycling, daily walks, or participating in favorite sports with a friend for motivation.[7]
Quit Smoking
Quitting smoking supports overall health and specifically benefits cholesterol levels. Numerous effective strategies exist to help people stop smoking—following them increases success rates.[8]
Lose Excess Weight
Excess weight contributes to many health issues, including elevated cholesterol—even a small amount above ideal weight can raise cholesterol levels. Losing just a modest amount of weight can make a noticeable difference. Simple lifestyle changes can support weight loss: avoid sugary drinks and drink more water, replace high-fat sweets with lighter alternatives, and incorporate physical activity into daily routines—such as using stairs instead of elevators, parking farther from work, walking regularly, and doing household chores like cooking or gardening.
Podcast: Common Misconceptions About Cholesterol
Many popular beliefs about cholesterol are actually false!
In this episode of Leaders’ Meet, hosted in collaboration with Novartis, we explore these myths and reveal the truth.
Featuring Dr. Hani Sabour, Cardiology Specialist
Enjoy the episode and gain a clearer, more accurate understanding of cholesterol.
References
- ↑ "Cholesterol and lipid tests", healthdirect.gov.au, August 2018, Retrieved 1-9-2020. Edited.
- ^ A B "Lipid Profile | Cholesterol Test", mainehealth.org, Retrieved 2-9-2020. Edited.
- ↑ "Cholesterol", labtestsonline.org, 26-4-2020, Retrieved 2-9-2020. Edited.
- ^ A B James Beckerman (16-7-2020), "Understanding Your Cholesterol Test Results", www.webmd.com, Retrieved 2-9-2020. Edited.
- ↑ "Cholesterol testing and results", www.mountsinai.org, Retrieved 2-9-2020. Edited.
- ^ A B "Top 5 lifestyle changes to improve your cholesterol", www.mayoclinic.org, Aug. 28, 2020, Retrieved 2-9-2020. Edited.
- ↑ "Top 5 lifestyle changes to improve your cholesterol", www.drugs.com, Jul 31, 2020, Retrieved 2-9-2020. Edited.
- ↑ "High cholesterol", www.nchmd.org, 7/13/2019, Retrieved 2-9-2020. Edited.
