How do I know if my cholesterol and triglyceride levels are optimal?
The following tables provide some general guidelines. However, you should always discuss your own results with your doctor.
| Total Cholesterol Level | Classification |
| Less than 200 mg/DL | Desirable |
200–239 mg/dL | Borderline-high risk |
240 mg/dL and above | Very high risk |
| LDL Cholesterol Level | Classification* |
Less than 100 mg/dL | Desirable |
100–129 mg/dL | Near optimal/above optimal |
130–159 mg/dL | Borderline high |
160–189 mg/dL | High risk |
190 mg/dL and above | Very high risk |
*Risk factors for heart disease include: family history of early heart problems (before age 55 for men, and before age 65 for women), smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, being male and over 45 or female and over 55, and having HDL levels below 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL for women.
| HDL Cholesterol Level | Classification |
Less than 40 mg/dL for men; less than 50 mg/dL for women | Major heart disease risk factor |
60 mg/dL or higher | Gives some protection against heart disease |
| Triglyceride Level | Classification |
Less than 150 mg/dL | Desirable |
150–199 mg/dL | Borderline-high risk |
200–499 mg/dL | High risk |
500 mg/dL or higher | Very high risk |
Where can I learn more about cholesterol?
Check out the American Heart Association’s Cholesterol website to learn more about cholesterol and its effects on your health. This website can help you keep your cholesterol levels within healthy limits and reduce your risk of heart disease.
