What is cholesterol testing. How does it help assess cardiovascular risk. When should you get tested. What does the test measure. How to interpret results. How to improve your cholesterol levels.

What is Cholesterol and Why is Testing Important?

Cholesterol is a type of fat molecule that plays a crucial role in our body’s functions. However, when present in excess, it can pose significant health risks. Cholesterol testing is a vital tool in evaluating heart health, as high levels of cholesterol are a known risk factor for cardiovascular problems, including heart disease and stroke.

How does cholesterol testing work? It measures the amount of cholesterol present in your blood. While a total cholesterol test provides an overall sum, it’s often part of a more comprehensive lipid panel that breaks down the different types of cholesterol.

Types of Cholesterol

• Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) – Often referred to as “bad” cholesterol
• High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) – Known as “good” cholesterol
• Triglycerides – Another type of fat in the blood

Understanding these different types is crucial for a comprehensive assessment of your cardiovascular health.

The Purpose and Importance of Cholesterol Testing

Why is cholesterol testing so important? It serves as a critical component in cardiac risk assessment. Excess cholesterol can damage arteries and blood vessels, significantly increasing the risk of stroke, heart attack, and heart disease.

Cholesterol screening is often used to identify potential cardiovascular risks in individuals who haven’t shown any symptoms. This proactive approach allows for early intervention and prevention of serious health issues.

Additional Uses of Cholesterol Testing

1. Monitoring individuals with high cardiovascular disease risk
2. Diagnosing certain medical conditions
3. Evaluating the effectiveness of treatments aimed at reducing cardiovascular disease risk

What Does a Cholesterol Test Measure?

A total cholesterol test measures the combined sum of all cholesterol molecules in the blood. However, it’s important to note that this test alone doesn’t provide a breakdown of different cholesterol types. That’s why it’s often combined with other tests in a lipid panel.

What does a lipid panel include? A comprehensive lipid panel typically measures:

• Total Cholesterol
• HDL Cholesterol
• LDL Cholesterol
• Triglycerides

This detailed breakdown provides a more comprehensive picture of your cardiovascular health.

When Should You Get a Cholesterol Test?

Determining the right time for cholesterol testing can be confusing, as guidelines vary among expert groups. However, as a general rule, routine blood testing, including cholesterol screening, typically begins around age 35 for adults.

Are there factors that might necessitate earlier or more frequent testing? Yes, several risk factors can influence when and how often you should get tested:

• Age (over 45 for men, over 50-55 for women)
• Previous high cholesterol results
• Prior cardiovascular problems
• Obesity or overweight
• Smoking
• Unhealthy diet
• Lack of regular physical activity
• High blood pressure
• Family history of early heart disease
• Diabetes or prediabetes

How often should you get tested if you have risk factors? If you have one or more of these risk factors, you may need to be tested every year or even more frequently, depending on your doctor’s recommendation.

Understanding Cholesterol Screening Guidelines

Cholesterol screening guidelines can vary based on age, gender, and risk factors. Here’s a general overview:

Is there a difference in screening guidelines for children and adults? Yes, children generally require less frequent screening unless they have specific risk factors or a family history of high cholesterol.

The Cholesterol Testing Process: What to Expect

Understanding the cholesterol testing process can help alleviate any anxiety you might have about the procedure. So, how is a cholesterol test typically conducted?

Most cholesterol tests are performed using blood drawn from a vein in your arm. This procedure, known as a venipuncture, is usually done in a doctor’s office, clinic, or medical lab. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Point-of-Care Testing

In some cases, cholesterol can be measured using rapid, point-of-care testing. How does this differ from traditional testing? Point-of-care testing requires only a small drop of blood from your finger, which is placed on a special test strip and inserted into a small device. This method provides results within minutes and is often available in medical offices and clinics.

Is fasting required before a cholesterol test? While fasting isn’t always necessary, it’s often recommended for a more accurate measurement of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions based on the type of test being performed.

Interpreting Your Cholesterol Test Results

Understanding your cholesterol test results is crucial for assessing your cardiovascular health. But what do these numbers actually mean?

Total Cholesterol Levels

• Desirable: Less than 200 mg/dL
• Borderline high: 200-239 mg/dL
• High: 240 mg/dL and above

LDL Cholesterol Levels

• Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL
• Near optimal: 100-129 mg/dL
• Borderline high: 130-159 mg/dL
• High: 160-189 mg/dL
• Very high: 190 mg/dL and above

HDL Cholesterol Levels

• Low (increased risk): Less than 40 mg/dL for men, less than 50 mg/dL for women
• Optimal: 60 mg/dL and above

Why is HDL cholesterol considered “good”? HDL cholesterol helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream, which is why higher levels are generally better.

It’s important to note that these numbers are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results in the context of your overall health and risk factors.

Strategies for Improving Your Cholesterol Levels

If your cholesterol test results indicate high levels, don’t panic. There are several strategies you can employ to improve your cholesterol profile. How can you lower your cholesterol naturally?

Dietary Changes

• Reduce saturated and trans fats
• Increase fiber intake
• Consume more omega-3 fatty acids
• Add plant sterols and stanols to your diet

Lifestyle Modifications

• Exercise regularly
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Quit smoking
• Limit alcohol consumption

Can dietary changes alone significantly impact cholesterol levels? While diet plays a crucial role, the effectiveness can vary from person to person. Some individuals may see significant improvements with dietary changes alone, while others may need additional interventions.

Medications

In some cases, lifestyle changes may not be sufficient to bring cholesterol levels under control. Your doctor might recommend medications such as:

• Statins
• Bile acid sequestrants
• Cholesterol absorption inhibitors
• PCSK9 inhibitors

Is medication always necessary for high cholesterol? Not always. The decision to start medication depends on various factors, including your overall cardiovascular risk, the severity of your cholesterol levels, and how well you respond to lifestyle changes.

The Role of Regular Cholesterol Testing in Preventive Healthcare

Regular cholesterol testing plays a vital role in preventive healthcare. Why is ongoing monitoring so important? It allows for early detection of changes in your cholesterol levels, enabling timely intervention before serious health issues arise.

How often should you have your cholesterol checked? The frequency of testing depends on your age, risk factors, and previous test results. Generally, adults with no risk factors should have their cholesterol checked every 4-6 years. Those with cardiovascular risk factors or existing heart disease may need more frequent testing.

Benefits of Regular Testing

• Early detection of high cholesterol
• Monitoring effectiveness of treatment
• Adjusting lifestyle and treatment plans as needed
• Preventing cardiovascular diseases

Can regular testing help motivate lifestyle changes? Absolutely. Seeing tangible improvements in your cholesterol numbers can be a powerful motivator to maintain healthy habits.

Advanced Cholesterol Testing: Beyond the Basic Lipid Panel

While the standard lipid panel provides valuable information, sometimes more detailed testing is necessary. What advanced cholesterol tests are available?

Advanced Lipoprotein Testing

These tests provide more detailed information about lipoprotein particles, including:

• LDL particle number and size
• HDL particle number and size
• Lipoprotein(a) levels

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) Test

This test measures the total number of atherogenic particles in the blood, providing a more accurate assessment of cardiovascular risk in some cases.

Non-HDL Cholesterol

This calculation (total cholesterol minus HDL cholesterol) is sometimes used as an alternative to LDL cholesterol for risk assessment.

Are these advanced tests necessary for everyone? Not typically. They’re usually reserved for individuals with complex lipid disorders, a strong family history of heart disease, or when standard tests don’t provide a clear picture of cardiovascular risk.

The Future of Cholesterol Testing and Management

As medical science advances, so does our understanding of cholesterol and its impact on health. What developments can we expect in the future of cholesterol testing and management?

Personalized Medicine

Genetic testing is becoming increasingly important in cholesterol management. How can genetics influence cholesterol levels? Certain genetic variants can affect how your body processes cholesterol, potentially leading to higher levels regardless of lifestyle factors.

New Treatment Approaches

Research is ongoing into new treatments for managing cholesterol, including:

• RNA interference therapies
• ANGPTL3 inhibitors
• Bempedoic acid

Improved Testing Methods

Advancements in technology may lead to more accurate and convenient testing methods. Could at-home cholesterol testing become more common? While some at-home tests are already available, their accuracy and reliability continue to improve, potentially making them a more viable option for regular monitoring in the future.

As our understanding of cholesterol and its role in health continues to evolve, so too will our strategies for testing and management. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider remain crucial in navigating these advancements and maintaining optimal heart health.

Cholesterol Test – Testing.com

Test Quick Guide

Cholesterol is a type of fat molecule, and cholesterol testing measures how much of it is present in the blood. Testing can help evaluate heart health since excess cholesterol is a risk factor for cardiovascular problems like heart disease and stroke.

There are multiple types of cholesterol, often categorized as either “good” or “bad.” A total cholesterol test measures the sum of good and bad cholesterol. While total cholesterol can be tested on its own, it is more often integrated into the lipid panel test that also shows the levels of each type of cholesterol.

About the Test

Purpose of the test

Cholesterol testing is often used as part of a cardiac risk assessment. Too much cholesterol in the blood can damage arteries and blood vessels and elevate the risk for stroke, heart attack, and heart disease.

Total cholesterol may be measured as part of cholesterol screening, which is looking for signs of risks to cardiovascular health in people who have not shown any symptoms. When used for screening, total cholesterol is typically one component of the lipid panel, which also determines levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL or “good”) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad”) cholesterol, and triglycerides.

Depending on the results from initial screening, future tests may involve only total and HDL cholesterol.

Total cholesterol and lipid panel tests may also be used to:

• Monitor people with a high risk of cardiovascular disease
• Diagnose certain medical conditions
• Monitor how well treatment is working to reduce cardiovascular disease risk

What does the test measure?

The total cholesterol test measures the combined sum of all cholesterol molecules found in the blood. This test alone does not specify the breakdown of different types of cholesterol; however, it is often combined with other tests that include measurements of HDL, LDL, and triglycerides.

When should I get a cholesterol test?

There are no consensus guidelines for when to do cholesterol screening. Based on different views of the benefits and downsides of screening, expert groups have varying recommendations for when to start screening and how frequently to do repeat tests.

As a general guideline, diagnostic testing typically begins with routine blood testing as an adult, usually around 35 years old. However, it is a good idea to consult with your doctor to determine whether or not you are at greater risk of high cholesterol. But there are certain factors that may put you at high risk, including:

• Being over 45 years old for men and over 50-55 for women
• High cholesterol on a previous test
• Prior cardiovascular problems
• Being overweight or obese
• Cigarette smoking
• Unhealthy diet
• Lack of regular physical activity
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Having a first-degree relative who had heart disease at an early age (under 55 in men and under 65 in women)
• Diabetes or prediabetes

There are no telltale symptoms of high cholesterol which present themselves prior to a catastrophic health event such as a heart attack or stroke, which makes getting tested incredibly important. Depending on your risk factors and ongoing test results, you may have cholesterol tests every year or less.

For people who have already had cardiovascular problems, cholesterol tests can be used to monitor their heart health and see how well treatment is working to lower their cholesterol.

A summary reviewing general approaches to cholesterol screening is listed below. In the majority of cases, screening is done with a lipid test that measures total cholesterol as well as HDL, LDL, and triglycerides.

Finding a Cholesterol Test

How can I get a cholesterol test?

Cholesterol tests are usually done using blood that is drawn from a vein in your arm. This procedure is typically done in a doctor’s office, clinic, or medical lab. When the laboratory analyzes your blood, total cholesterol is frequently measured along with other types of cholesterol in a lipid panel test ordered by your doctor.

Total cholesterol can also be measured with rapid, point-of-care testing. This kind of test requires putting a drop of blood from your finger on a special test strip that is inserted into a small device, giving results within minutes. Point-of-care testing is used in some medical offices and clinics and may also be found at health fairs.

Though having your cholesterol checked by a doctor is highly recommended, there are at-home tests available.

Can I take the test at home?

Two main types of at-home cholesterol tests are available:

• Test kits that have you take a blood sample from your finger and send it by mail to a lab.
• Test kits that include an at-home method for analyzing the blood sample from your finger. This may be a small electronic device or a test strip that changes color to indicate cholesterol levels.

At-home tests for total cholesterol may include other cholesterol measurements, such as HDL and LDL, that are part of a typical lipid panel.

While at-home testing may be convenient, there are a few downsides.  Mistakes can be made in the sample collection process, leading to inaccurate results.  Additionally, most kits only measure total cholesterol and aren’t able to distinguish between LDLs and HDLs.

How much does the test cost?

There is no standard price for a total cholesterol test. The cost depends on where you take the test as well as coverage that may be provided by your insurance.

Costs of testing can include the office visit, the fee for the technician to draw your blood, and the actual laboratory analysis. If your doctor recommends a cholesterol test, these costs are typically covered by insurance. However depending on your plan, you may be responsible for copays or a deductible. Your doctor and insurance plan can provide more specific information about your costs for cholesterol testing.

A point-of-care cholesterol test at pharmacies or health clinics may cost around $100 or less. This kind of test may be free at community health fairs or similar events.

There is a wide price range for at-home test kits. Many models include a small device to conduct the test and cost under $150, but more expensive options are available. Kits commonly come with extra test strips that allow you to check your cholesterol more than once.

Taking a Cholesterol Test

Cholesterol testing is performed on a sample of your blood. If your blood is going to be analyzed in a lab, the sample is normally drawn from a vein in your arm. In point-of-care and at-home tests, a drop of blood is taken from your fingertip.

Before the test

In many cases, it is important to fast for nine to 12 hours before a cholesterol test, which means avoiding all food and all beverages other than water.

If your total cholesterol is being measured as part of a lipid panel, fasting prior to the test ensures the validity of the results. If the laboratory is only going to measure your total cholesterol and HDL, fasting may not be necessary.

Because the need to fast depends on the exact type of cholesterol test you take, it is essential to talk with your doctor’s office beforehand so that you know all of the pretest instructions to follow.

During the test

For laboratory tests, a needle is used to take a sample of blood from a vein in your arm. An elastic band known as a tourniquet is tied around the upper part of your arm so that there is more blood in the vein. To prevent infection, your skin will be cleaned with an antiseptic in the area where your blood will be drawn.

There may be slight pain or a sting when the needle is inserted. After that, it usually takes less than a minute for enough blood to be drawn.

Point-of-care and at-home tests get a blood sample from a fingerstick. This is a small puncture on your fingertip that produces a drop of blood but generally causes little pain.

After the test

Once blood has been drawn from your vein, bleeding is stopped with a cotton swab and/or an adhesive bandage. You may need to keep pressure on the puncture site for an hour or more to prevent bleeding and allow it to heal quickly.

These types of blood draws are routine. They are an outpatient procedure, so you can drive or go to work or school afterward. You may need to avoid sports or intense activity for a few hours. If you were told to fast before testing, it may be helpful to bring a light snack to eat once the test is complete.

Tests that use a fingerstick do not usually have any post-test restrictions. An adhesive bandage can be used if bleeding continues after you’ve taken the blood sample.

Cholesterol Test Results

Receiving test results

If your cholesterol is being analyzed by a laboratory after a needle blood draw, you can expect to receive results within a few days. The doctor’s office may contact you with results or schedule an appointment to review them. You may also receive results through an online health portal or in the mail.

For point-of-care tests or at-home test kits with a device for analyzing cholesterol, results are available within minutes.

Interpreting test results

Cholesterol levels are measured in milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL). General reference ranges for total cholesterol are listed below:

• Normal: under 200 mg/dL
• Borderline high: 200-239 mg/dL
• High: 240 mg/dL and above

Remember that total cholesterol alone does not offer a complete picture of your risk for cardiovascular problems. The amounts of good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol are important to consider, which is why these are evaluated as part of a complete lipid panel.

Cholesterol test results are also not the only factor determining your heart health. Your age, family history, and health habits are elements that affect your cardiovascular disease risk. Using a risk calculator, your doctor may analyze your test scores alongside these other factors.

Depending on your test scores and overall risk, treatment may be suggested to lower your cholesterol. Examples of treatment include lifestyle changes, such as increase to exercise, quitting smoking or changing your diet, as well as medications that help decrease cholesterol. Your doctor can best discuss the benefits and risks of these approaches in your situation, but be sure to ask follow-up questions, such as:

• What lifestyle changes do I need to make?
• How often should I check my cholesterol?
• Do cholesterol medications have any side effects?
• How do I know the medication is working?
• What happens if this treatment plan doesn’t improve my cholesterol—what’s next?

While the main focus of cholesterol testing is on identifying cases of high cholesterol, it is also possible to have very low levels. This is most often tied to an underlying health condition or malnutrition.

• Lipid Panel Test
  Learn More
• HDL Cholesterol Testing
  Learn More
• Direct LDL Cholesterol
  Learn More
• Triglycerides Testing
  Learn More
• VLDL Cholesterol Testing
  Learn More
• Cardiac Risk Assessment
  Learn More

Resources

• CDC: Cholesterol
• MedlinePlus: Cholesterol
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: Blood Cholesterol
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: Heart-Healthy Living

Sources

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Lipid Panel Cholesterol Test: Ranges, Procedure, and Results

A complete cholesterol test measures levels of cholesterol and other fats in your blood. The CDC recommends testing every 4 to 6 years for healthy adults. People with a family history of high cholesterol or other risk factors may need to be tested more often.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body needs to produce certain hormones and to build the outer membrane of every cell. Although a certain level of cholesterol is essential, too much of it can build up in your blood vessels and raise your risk of:

• heart disease
• stroke
• atherosclerosis, a clogging or hardening of your arteries

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends beginning cholesterol testing in childhood or adolescence and getting retested at least every 5 years after the age of 20.

A complete cholesterol test, also called a lipid panel or lipid profile, measures the levels of lipids, or fats, in your blood. It primarily measures your:

• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. HDL cholesterol is referred to as “good” cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from your blood.
• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is referred to as “bad” cholesterol. Too much of it can cause cholesterol to build up on the walls of your arteries. This raises your risk of heart attack, stroke, and atherosclerosis.
• Triglycerides. When you eat, your body breaks down fats in your food into smaller molecules called triglycerides. High levels of triglycerides in your blood increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Having obesity or unmanaged diabetes, drinking too much alcohol, and eating a high calorie diet can all contribute to high triglyceride levels.
• Very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). Your blood also contains another type of cholesterol linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease called VLDL. VLDL is often not mentioned on cholesterol tests because it’s not directly measured. Instead, VLDL levels are calculated by assuming VLDL levels are 20 percent of your triglyceride levels. Your VLDL levels are not used to determine treatment for elevated cholesterol.
• Total cholesterol. This is the total amount of cholesterol in your blood. It’s the sum of your LDL, HDL, and VLDL cholesterol. Total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol are the the only levels that are directly measured. LDL and VLDL are both calculated values based on the the measurement of your total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides.

In the United States, cholesterol and triglyceride levels are measured in milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per deciliter (dL) of blood.

Cholesterol test results

Ideal results for most adults are as follows:

• LDL: less than 100 mg/dL
• HDL: 40 to 60 mg/dL (a higher number is better)
• Total cholesterol: less than 200 mg/dL
• Triglycerides: less than 150 mg/dL
• VLDL levels: under 30 mg/dL

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If your cholesterol numbers are outside of the normal range, you may be at a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and atherosclerosis.

Your doctor will consider other factors, such as your family history, weight, and exercise levels, to determine your risk.

If your test results are abnormal, your doctor may order a blood glucose test to check for diabetes. They might also order a thyroid function test to determine if your thyroid is underactive.

Can test results be wrong?

In some cases, cholesterol test results can be wrong. For example, a recent study found that the assumption that VLDL levels are 20 percent of triglyceride levels is less accurate when triglyceride levels exceed 400 mg/dL

Improper fasting, medications, human error, and a variety of other factors can cause your test to produce false negative or false positive results.

Testing both your HDL and LDL levels typically produces more accurate results than checking your LDL alone.

Cholesterol testing is very important if you:

• have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease
• are overweight or obese
• drink alcohol frequently
• smoke cigarettes
• lead an inactive lifestyle
• have diabetes, kidney disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, or an underactive thyroid gland

The CDC recommends regular testing every 4 to 6 years for most healthy adults. People with a family history of high cholesterol or other risk factors may need to get tested more often.

The CDC also recommends that children, adolescents, and young adults have their cholesterol levels checked once between the ages of 9 and 11, and again between 17 and 21.

In some cases, your doctor may ask you to fast before having your cholesterol levels tested.

However, according to 2018 guidelines published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, a nonfasting test can accurately detect high cholesterol or lipids in adults over age 20 who aren’t taking medications to lower their lipid levels.

If you do need to fast, you should avoid eating or drinking anything other than water for 9 to 12 hours before your test.

Before your test, you should also tell your doctor about:

• any symptoms or health problems you’re experiencing
• your family heart health history
• all medications and supplements that you’re currently taking

If you’re taking medications that could increase your cholesterol levels, such as birth control pills, your doctor may ask you to stop taking them a few days before your test.

To check your cholesterol levels, your doctor will need to get a sample of your blood. You will probably have your blood drawn in the morning, sometimes after fasting since the night before.

A blood test is an outpatient procedure. It takes only a few minutes and is relatively painless. It’s usually performed at a diagnostic lab. In some cases, it can also be performed during a regular doctor visit, at a local pharmacy, or even at home.

Walk-in clinic rates usually cost anywhere from $50 to $100. Cholesterol testing at a local pharmacy can cost $5 to $25. An at-home test can cost anywhere from $15 to $25, while tests that need to be shipped to a lab can average from $75 to $200.

If you have health insurance, cholesterol tests that are ordered by your doctor will likely be fully or partially covered by your health insurance plan.

There are very few risks associated with having your blood drawn for a cholesterol test. You may feel slightly faint or have some soreness or pain at the site where your blood was drawn. There’s also a very slight risk of infection at the puncture site.

The reliability of home cholesterol tests can vary between brands. The reliability can also be affected by how well you follow the test instructions.

In a 2017 study, researchers found that two point-of-care lipid testing devices were relatively accurate and operated within the industry standards. This means that:

• HDL levels were within 12 percent of the result of lab testing.
• Total cholesterol was within 10 percent.
• Triglyceride levels were within 15 percent.

In a 2021 study, researchers analyzed the performance of five types of commercially available home cholesterol tests. The researchers found that the Roche Accutrend Plus test had an excellent performance, but that several of the other products had poor accuracy and diagnostic ability.

The researchers concluded that better regulation and standardization are needed for at-home cholesterol tests.

For the most reliable results, laboratory testing may still be the best option, especially if you have risk factors for high cholesterol.

High cholesterol can be treated with lifestyle changes and medication. Lowering your LDL may help reduce your risk of heart conditions and other related issues.

To help lower your bad cholesterol levels:

• If you smoke, consider quitting. Talk with your doctor about how to create a smoking cessation plan that will work for you.
• Eat a balanced diet. Focus on eating a balanced diet that consists mostly of unprocessed foods. Try to eat a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, whole-grain products, low-fat dairy products, and lean sources of protein. Try to increase your intake of soluble fiber and limit your intake of foods that are high in saturated fats, such as butter, cream, meat, and palm oil.
• Avoid trans fats. Artificial trans fats are hazardous to your heart and health. Read food labels and avoid foods that list partially hydrogenated items on the ingredients list.
• Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity per week. This works out to about 22 minutes of exercise per day.
• Maintain a moderate weight. Carrying too much weight is one of the main risk factors for high cholesterol. Talk with your doctor about what a healthy weight range is for you.
• Limit your alcohol consumption. Heavy alcohol consumption is one of the leading risk factors for many types of diseases, including heart disease, high cholesterol, liver disease, and certain cancers.

Your doctor may put you on a “therapeutic lifestyle changes” or TLC diet. With this meal plan, only 7 percent of your daily calories should come from saturated fat. It also requires you to get less than 200 mg of cholesterol from your food each day.

Some foods may help your digestive tract absorb less cholesterol. For example, your doctor may encourage you to eat more:

• oats, barley, and other whole grains
• fruits, such as apples, pears, bananas, and oranges
• vegetables, such as eggplant and okra
• beans and legumes, such as kidney beans, chickpeas, and lentils

If changing your lifestyle habits alone isn’t enough to lower your cholesterol, your doctor may recommend taking medications, such as statins. These medications help lower your LDL levels.

Learn more about lowering your cholesterol here.

A cholesterol test can measure levels of cholesterol and fats in your blood to assess your risk of cardiovascular disease.

Most healthy adults should get their cholesterol levels tested at least every 5 years. People with a family history or at an increased risk of high cholesterol should get tested more often.

If you do have high cholesterol, your doctor can work with you to create a treatment plan to get your cholesterol levels into a healthy range.

Treatment for high cholesterol usually consists of some combination of dietary changes, increased exercise, smoking cessation, and medication.

how to prepare, why to take and how to read

Contents:

General analysis for cholesterol

The basis for diagnosing disorders of lipid metabolism and cholesterol levels in the blood. Venous blood is taken for analysis. A healthy person over 25 years of age is recommended no more than once every five years to monitor their health. If abnormalities are detected, the doctor may prescribe regular monitoring of blood cholesterol levels. Total cholesterol shows the content of cholesterol in the blood without dividing it into the so-called “bad” and “good”. The rate of indicators varies depending on gender and age.

Cholesterol test code

Permissible blood cholesterol value:

Cholesterol blood test code for women

9

table of interpretation of blood test for cholesterol for men

9

Age	Norm (in mmol/l)
25-35	3. 44-6.58
35-40
50-60	4.09-7.17 90 032
60-70	4 ,12-7.15
Older 70	3.73-7.86

The total cholesterol test can be taken separately or as part of a detailed blood test. As a result of the test, this analysis is denoted by the abbreviation OX or the Latin abbreviation Cho or Chol (Cholesterin).

How to properly prepare for a cholesterol test

To obtain the most reliable result, you should prepare for a cholesterol test:

1. Blood is taken from a vein, strictly on an empty stomach

before 12-14 hours before the analysis

3. At least one day before the test, you should stop drinking alcohol

4. From two weeks before the analysis, it is recommended to maintain the usual diet

5. 10 minutes before blood sampling for cholesterol, you should sit quietly

6. On the eve of the analysis, avoid stressful situations, give up outdoor activities and sports

7. Two days before blood sampling, do not eat sweets

8. For a week before the test, stop taking medications. If the medication cannot be stopped, inform the health worker about how and what medications you are taking

9. Refrain from smoking 2 hours before blood sampling

10. For 2, and preferably 3 weeks, refuse to take drugs that normalize cholesterol levels in the blood.

For example, Lactoflorene® CHOLESTEROL, when taken regularly, can reduce total blood cholesterol levels by 17%. This result is very good for the treatment and prevention of diseases provoked by cholesterol, however, a blood test for cholesterol makes such effectiveness of Lactoflorene® CHOLESTEROL unreliable. It does not matter which form of release of Lactoflorene® CHOLESTEROL you take: in powder or tablets, the drug acts in the same way, since the composition of Lactoflorene® CHOLESTEROL has a complex of components that are effective in combating high cholesterol. The combination of live bifidobacteria, natural statin – red fermented rice, vitamin PP and antioxidant – coenzyme Q10, complexly balances the balance of good and bad cholesterol, while reducing the total level of cholesterol in the blood.

Lipidogram, or lipid profile

This is the name of an extended cholesterol test, which has detailed indicators and demonstrates the presence in the blood of not only the total amount of cholesterol, but also various lipids: HDL – high density lipoproteins or “good cholesterol”, LDL – low density lipoproteins or “bad cholesterol”, VLDL – very low density lipoproteins, as well as triglycerides and atherogenic index.

HDL (HDL) – participates in metabolic processes, helps to remove cholesterol from the cardiovascular system, and also

LDL (LDL) and VLDL (VLDL) – can settle on the walls of blood vessels, which leads to diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Triglycerides (TG) are fats involved in metabolism and energy metabolism. They do not affect cholesterol levels, however, coupled with a general analysis for cholesterol, they show a risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Atherogenic coefficient or index – helps to assess the likelihood of deposits on the walls of blood vessels and the risk of developing atherosclerosis.

table of norms of lipidogram indicators

Anyone can read a blood test in general terms patient. So, according to the lipid profile, one can suspect:

– Hypercholesterolemia when the total cholesterol exceeds the limit of 5 mmol / l. This is a signal that atherosclerotic deposits and cholesterol plaques can form in the body. Such conditions are dangerous for the health of the cardiovascular system and can lead to irreversible consequences: heart attack, stroke, ischemia.

– Hyperlipidemia with high lipid concentration, i.e. total cholesterol above 5 mmol/l and triglycerides above 1.8 mmol/l. It speaks of violations of fat metabolism, which in the end can cause atherosclerosis, thrombosis and other diseases of the cardiovascular system.

– Hypertriglyceridemia or lipid metabolism disorders – with an increased concentration of triglycerides, over 1.8 mmol / l. In addition to lipid imbalances, hypertriglyceridemia indicates the patient may have obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, renal failure, autoimmune and other diseases.

– Reducing cholesterol levels with extremely low levels of cholesterol in the blood, below 3 mmol / l. It can talk about cirrhosis of the liver, anemia, malignant tumors in the liver, hyperthyroidism, lung diseases and other pathologies.

Correctly detailing a blood test for cholesterol, and taking into account the anamnesis, a doctor can diagnose a particular disease. It is enough for patients to navigate in blood counts to monitor cholesterol levels in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

CHOLESTEROL UNDER CONTROL WITH

CHOLESTEROL

gluten free

lactose free

HELP TO MAINTAIN
NORMAL CHOLESTEROL LEVEL

• prevention and maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels
• control of cholesterol levels in people with moderate hypercholesterolemia
• reduced risk of cardiovascular disease
• prevention and maintenance of the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system

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Blood test for cholesterol – lipid profile interpretation

We used to think of cholesterol as enemy number one.

But everything turned out to be not so simple – life without cholesterol is impossible, and it can be not only “bad”, but also “good”.

Doctor’s consultation

You can get the consultation of the necessary specialist online in the Doctis 9 application0005

Laboratory

You can undergo a comprehensive examination of all major body systems

• Triglycerides (TG)
• Total cholesterol (CHOL).
• HDL Cholesterol (HDL)
• LDL Cholesterol (LDL)
• VLDL Cholesterol (VLDL)
• Index (coefficient) of atherogenicity

In order to determine the risk of developing vascular atherosclerosis, it is enough to take an analysis for a general
cholesterol. If the indicator is normal, you can not worry. True, in case nothing bothers you,
and behind him is a good heredity for cardiovascular diseases. If not, or the indicator
increased, it is important to pass a full-fledged lipid profile and find out the “balance of power” between various
fractions of cholesterol and consult a specialist in a timely manner.

Cholesterol test: basic indicators

Triglycerides (TG). Norm – 0.41−1.8 mmol / l

Triglycerides are the main depot of fats in our body, they are formed in the liver. Most
cases, elevated levels of triglycerides (the so-called blood chylosis) are the result of malnutrition with excess
fatty foods and carbohydrates, so you need to take the test no earlier than 9 hours after the last dose
food. The reason for the increase may be primary (hereditary) hyperlipidaemias and, more commonly,
secondary hyperlipidemias, of which are malnutrition, obesity,
glucose tolerance and diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, gout, diseases of the liver, pancreas and kidneys.
It can also be caused by stress, alcohol abuse, and certain medications.
(beta-blockers, corticosteroids, diuretics and some others). A decrease in values ​​is fixed with insufficient
nutrition, hyperthyroidism, malabsorption, long-term vitamin C intake.

Total cholesterol (CHOL). Norm – 3.2-5.6 mmol / l

The most important lipid, which is a structural component of all cell membranes, a precursor of sex hormones,
corticosteroids, bile acids and vitamin D. Up to 80% of cholesterol is synthesized in the liver, the rest
enters our body with food. The content of cholesterol in the blood depends to a large extent
from age, so for an infant the upper limit of the norm is 5.25 mmol / l , and for a man over 70
– 6.86 mmol/l . Cholesterol is transported by messengers called lipoproteins
of which there are three main types – high density, low density and very low
density. An increase in total cholesterol, as well as triglycerides, occurs in primary and secondary
hyperlipidemias.

Despite the fact that in screening studies, averaged
the boundaries of total cholesterol (5.6 mmol / l) and its components, currently doctors use tables
norms according to gender and age. Therefore, if the indicators deviate, to decipher the analysis, refer to
doctor.

HDL-Cholesterol (HDL). Norm – not less than 0.9 mmol / l

This fraction of cholesterol is involved in the transport of cholesterol from peripheral tissues to the liver. This
means that they take cholesterol from the surface of blood vessels, including the legs, heart, brain, and carry
it to the liver. This means that HDL plays an important anti-atherogenic role, preventing the formation of cholesterol plaques and the development
atherosclerosis. And if the level of total cholesterol is increased due to HDL cholesterol, this is considered good
prognostic factor, and cholesterol should not be lowered. At the same time, the decrease in the level of “good”
cholesterol below 0.90 mmol/l for men and 1.15 mmol/l for women is considered
risk factor for atherosclerosis.

LDL cholesterol (LDL). Norm – 1.

71−3.5 mmol / l

Low density lipoproteins are the main carrier of cholesterol in our body. It is he who spreads
fat synthesized in the liver to organs and tissues. It is believed that LDL cholesterol levels
significantly more influence on the development of atherosclerosis than the level of total cholesterol. That is why it became
called “bad” cholesterol. In conditions when the vascular wall is compromised by factors
risk (nicotine, high glucose, homocysteine, increased blood pressure), cholesterol from
LDL is deposited in it, forming an atherosclerotic plaque. For people with risk factors for atherosclerosis
(age – more than 45 years for men and 55 years for women, cases of early death from cardiovascular
diseases among relatives, smoking, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity) cholesterol level
LDL should not exceed 3.37 mmol/l , values ​​from 3.37 to 4.12
mmol/l is regarded as an average risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis, and is higher than 4.