Ideal Cholesterol Levels

Introduction

Cholesterol is a fatty substance essential for many body functions, but excess cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease. Understanding ideal cholesterol levels helps in maintaining cardiovascular health.

Types of Cholesterol

Cholesterol is divided into: - Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Known as "bad" cholesterol, high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries. - High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as "good" cholesterol, it helps remove LDL from the bloodstream. - Triglycerides: Another type of fat in the blood that contributes to heart disease if elevated. - Total Cholesterol: The sum of LDL, HDL, and other lipid components.

Recommended Cholesterol Levels

According to major health organizations: - LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): Below 100 mg/dL (ideal), but less than 70 mg/dL is preferred for high-risk individuals. - HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): Above 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL for women. - Triglycerides: Below 150 mg/dL. - Total cholesterol: Below 200 mg/dL.

Factors Affecting Cholesterol Levels

• Diet: High saturated fats and trans fats raise LDL.
• Physical activity: Regular exercise increases HDL.
• Genetics: Family history influences cholesterol metabolism.
• Medications: Statins and other drugs help lower LDL.

Managing Cholesterol Levels

• Healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
• Regular exercise: At least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
• Medication adherence: If prescribed by a doctor, follow dosing strictly.
• Routine check-ups: Regular lipid profile tests help monitor cholesterol.

Conclusion

Maintaining cholesterol within ideal levels reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Regular monitoring, a healthy lifestyle, and medical support contribute to optimal heart health.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines for Cholesterol Management

1. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol
2. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000625
3. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/about-cholesterol/what-your-cholesterol-levels-mean
4. https://professional.heart.org/en/
5. https://www.acc.org/~/media/Non-Clinical/Files-PDFs-Excel-MS-Word-etc/Guidelines/2018/Guidelines-Made-Simple-Tool-2018-Cholesterol.pdf

2. European Society of Cardiology and European Atherosclerosis Society Guidelines for Dyslipidemia Management

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Dyslipidaemias-Management-of
2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/41/1/111/5556353
3. https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/publications/DYSLIPguidelines-dyslipidemias-FT.pdf
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37739143/
5. https://www.portailvasculaire.fr/sites/default/files/docs/2019_esc-eas_dyslipidemie_guidelines.pdf