The figures for good and bad cholesterol

Hello Anon

Thank you for writing.

What is LDL and HDL cholesterol?
LDL or low density lipoprotein is sometimes referred to as “bad” cholesterol. This type of cholesterol is called bad because it may lead to an excessive amount of cholesterol in the heart arteries. Too much cholesterol in the heart arteries may cause them to become blocked, increasing your risk of heart disease, atherosclerosis, or other cardiac events.

On the other hand, HDL or high density lipoprotein is often referred to as “good” cholesterol. HDL cholesterol is the housekeeper when it comes to cholesterol. It picks up excess cholesterol throughout the body and delivers it to the liver where it’s removed.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the following are general guidelines for cholesterol levels. It should be noted that these numbers are guidelines only.

Total Cholesterol Level Total Cholesterol Category
Less than 200 mg/dL Desirable
200–239 mg/dL Borderline high
240 mg/dL and higher High

LDL Cholesterol Level LDL Cholesterol Category
Less than 100 mg/dL Optimal
100–129 mg/dL Near optimal/above optimal
130–159 mg/dL Borderline high
160–189 mg/dL High
190 mg/dL and higher Very high

HDL Cholesterol Level HDL Cholesterol Category
Less than 40 mg/dL-A major risk factor for heart disease
40–59 mg/dL-The higher, the better
60 mg/dL and higher-Considered protective against heart disease

Best,
Susan