What does a cholesterol level of 234 mg/dL mean for your health. How can you lower your borderline high cholesterol through lifestyle changes and medical interventions. What are the risks associated with elevated cholesterol levels.

Decoding Your Cholesterol Numbers: What 234 mg/dL Signifies

A cholesterol level of 234 mg/dL falls within the borderline high range, which spans from 200 to 239 mg/dL. This level indicates that your cholesterol is above the desirable range but not yet in the high-risk category. While not immediately alarming, it’s a clear signal that action should be taken to prevent further elevation and reduce associated health risks.

Can borderline high cholesterol lead to health complications? Yes, if left unaddressed, borderline high cholesterol can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, potentially leading to heart disease and stroke.

Components of a Cholesterol Test

A comprehensive cholesterol test, known as a lipid panel, measures several key components:

• Total Cholesterol: The overall amount of cholesterol in your blood
• Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Often called “bad” cholesterol
• High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as “good” cholesterol
• Triglycerides: Another type of fat in the bloodstream

Understanding these components is crucial for assessing your cardiovascular health. How do these components interact? LDL cholesterol contributes to plaque buildup in arteries, while HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. Triglycerides, when elevated, can also increase heart disease risk.

The Silent Nature of High Cholesterol: Why Regular Testing Matters

High cholesterol is often referred to as a silent condition because it typically doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms. This lack of warning signs underscores the importance of regular cholesterol testing. How often should you get your cholesterol checked? For most adults, a cholesterol test every 5 years is recommended, but your doctor may suggest more frequent testing based on your risk factors.

Are there any signs that might indicate high cholesterol? While high cholesterol itself doesn’t cause symptoms, advanced atherosclerosis can lead to:

• Chest pain (angina)
• Shortness of breath
• Numbness or coldness in extremities
• Stroke symptoms (if plaque affects arteries leading to the brain)

These symptoms, however, often occur only after significant damage has already been done, emphasizing the need for proactive testing and management.

Lifestyle Modifications to Lower Borderline High Cholesterol

For many individuals with borderline high cholesterol, lifestyle changes can be highly effective in bringing levels back to a healthy range. What dietary changes can help lower cholesterol? Consider the following strategies:

1. Reduce saturated and trans fat intake
2. Increase consumption of fiber-rich foods
3. Incorporate heart-healthy fats from sources like olive oil, nuts, and avocados
4. Choose lean proteins and limit red meat consumption
5. Include omega-3 fatty acids from fish or supplements

How does exercise impact cholesterol levels? Regular physical activity can help raise HDL cholesterol while lowering LDL and triglycerides. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.

The Power of Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for cholesterol management. How does weight affect cholesterol levels? Excess body weight, especially around the midsection, can increase LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while lowering HDL cholesterol. Even modest weight loss can have significant benefits for your lipid profile.

Navigating Nutrition Labels: A Key Tool for Cholesterol Management

Understanding and utilizing nutrition labels is essential for making informed food choices that support healthy cholesterol levels. What should you look for on food labels to manage cholesterol?

• Saturated fat content: Aim to limit saturated fat to less than 10% of your daily calories
• Trans fat: Avoid products containing partially hydrogenated oils
• Dietary cholesterol: While less impactful than saturated fat, it’s still wise to be mindful of cholesterol content
• Fiber: Choose foods high in soluble fiber, which can help lower LDL cholesterol
• Sodium: Excessive salt intake can contribute to high blood pressure, another risk factor for heart disease

How can you use this information practically? Start by comparing similar products and choosing those with lower saturated fat and higher fiber content. Pay attention to serving sizes to ensure accurate assessment of nutritional intake.

The Role of Smoking Cessation in Cholesterol Management

Smoking has a detrimental effect on cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health. How does smoking impact cholesterol? Cigarette smoking lowers HDL cholesterol, increases the risk of blood clots, and damages the lining of blood vessels, all of which contribute to an increased risk of heart disease.

What happens to cholesterol levels when you quit smoking? Quitting smoking can lead to rapid improvements in HDL cholesterol levels, with some studies showing increases within just a few weeks of cessation. Additionally, quitting smoking reduces the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which makes it less likely to contribute to plaque formation.

Strategies for Successful Smoking Cessation

Quitting smoking can be challenging, but numerous resources and strategies can increase your chances of success:

• Nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum, lozenges)
• Prescription medications to reduce cravings
• Behavioral counseling and support groups
• Mobile apps and online resources for tracking progress and motivation
• Gradual reduction techniques

Remember, it’s never too late to quit smoking and reap the benefits for your cholesterol levels and overall health.

Monitoring Progress: The Importance of Follow-Up Testing

After implementing lifestyle changes to address borderline high cholesterol, it’s crucial to monitor your progress through follow-up testing. How soon should you retest your cholesterol levels after making changes? Generally, it’s recommended to retest after about 3 to 6 months of consistent lifestyle modifications.

What should you expect from follow-up tests? Depending on the extent of your lifestyle changes and individual factors, you may see improvements in various aspects of your lipid profile:

• Decreased total cholesterol
• Lowered LDL cholesterol
• Increased HDL cholesterol
• Reduced triglyceride levels

If your follow-up tests don’t show significant improvement, your healthcare provider may recommend additional interventions, including medication.

Understanding Test Variability

It’s important to note that cholesterol levels can fluctuate due to various factors, including recent meals, time of day, and even stress. How can you ensure accurate test results? Follow these tips:

1. Fast for 9-12 hours before the test (unless otherwise instructed by your doctor)
2. Maintain your usual diet and activity level in the days leading up to the test
3. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours before the test
4. Inform your healthcare provider of any medications or supplements you’re taking

Consistent testing under similar conditions will provide the most reliable picture of your cholesterol trends over time.

Medical Interventions for Persistent Borderline High Cholesterol

While lifestyle modifications are the first line of defense against borderline high cholesterol, some individuals may require medication to achieve optimal levels. When might medication be necessary for managing cholesterol? Your healthcare provider may recommend medication if:

• Lifestyle changes alone haven’t sufficiently lowered your cholesterol
• You have additional risk factors for heart disease
• Your LDL cholesterol remains significantly elevated
• You have a personal or family history of premature heart disease

Types of Cholesterol-Lowering Medications

Several classes of medications can help manage cholesterol levels:

1. Statins: The most commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering drugs, which work by blocking a substance needed to produce cholesterol in the liver
2. Bile acid sequestrants: These medications bind to bile acids, prompting the liver to use more cholesterol to produce bile acids, thus lowering blood cholesterol
3. Cholesterol absorption inhibitors: These drugs reduce the absorption of cholesterol from the small intestine
4. PCSK9 inhibitors: A newer class of drugs that help the liver remove more LDL cholesterol from the blood
5. Fibrates: Primarily used to lower triglycerides and modestly increase HDL cholesterol

How do these medications compare in effectiveness? Statins are generally the most potent for lowering LDL cholesterol, often achieving reductions of 30-50%. Other medications may be used alone or in combination with statins, depending on the individual’s needs and response to treatment.

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

As with any medication, cholesterol-lowering drugs can have side effects. What are common side effects of cholesterol medications? Some potential side effects include:

• Muscle pain or weakness (particularly with statins)
• Digestive issues
• Liver function changes
• Increased blood sugar levels

It’s important to discuss potential side effects and drug interactions with your healthcare provider. Regular monitoring through blood tests can help ensure the medication is working effectively and not causing adverse effects.

Beyond Cholesterol: Comprehensive Cardiovascular Risk Assessment

While cholesterol levels are an important indicator of cardiovascular health, they are just one piece of the puzzle. How do other factors contribute to heart disease risk? A comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment considers multiple factors, including:

• Blood pressure
• Smoking status
• Diabetes or prediabetes
• Family history of premature heart disease
• Age and gender
• Physical activity level
• Body mass index (BMI)

What tools do healthcare providers use to assess overall cardiovascular risk? Several risk calculators and assessment tools are available, such as:

1. The Framingham Risk Score
2. The American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) Cardiovascular Risk Calculator
3. The Reynolds Risk Score

These tools help estimate an individual’s 10-year risk of developing cardiovascular disease, guiding decisions about preventive measures and treatment intensity.

Advanced Testing for Borderline Cases

For individuals with borderline high cholesterol and uncertain risk status, additional testing may be recommended. What advanced tests can provide more insight into cardiovascular risk?

• Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Score: This non-invasive imaging test detects and quantifies calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, providing a more direct assessment of atherosclerosis
• Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT) Test: An ultrasound measurement of the thickness of the inner layers of the carotid artery, which can indicate early atherosclerosis
• Advanced Lipid Testing: These tests provide a more detailed analysis of lipid particles, including LDL particle number and size
• High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Test: Measures inflammation in the body, which is associated with increased cardiovascular risk

How do these tests influence treatment decisions? The results of these advanced tests can help refine risk assessments and guide more personalized treatment strategies, particularly for individuals with borderline cholesterol levels or conflicting risk factors.

Long-Term Strategies for Maintaining Healthy Cholesterol Levels

Managing cholesterol is not a short-term endeavor but a lifelong commitment to cardiovascular health. What strategies can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels over the long term?

1. Develop sustainable dietary habits: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
2. Make physical activity a regular part of your routine: Find enjoyable forms of exercise that you can maintain consistently
3. Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact cholesterol levels and overall health
4. Get adequate sleep: Poor sleep habits have been linked to unfavorable changes in lipid profiles
5. Stay educated: Keep up with the latest research and recommendations for cholesterol management
6. Maintain regular check-ups: Continue to monitor your cholesterol levels and overall health with your healthcare provider

How often should you reassess your cholesterol management strategy? It’s wise to review your approach annually or whenever there are significant changes in your health status, lifestyle, or family history.

The Role of Technology in Cholesterol Management

Advancements in technology have created new tools to support cholesterol management. How can technology aid in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels?

• Fitness trackers and smartwatches: Monitor physical activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns
• Nutrition apps: Help track dietary intake and make informed food choices
• Telehealth services: Provide convenient access to healthcare providers for monitoring and advice
• Home cholesterol testing kits: Allow for more frequent monitoring between clinical tests
• Medication reminder apps: Help ensure consistent adherence to prescribed treatments

While these technologies can be valuable tools, it’s important to use them in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, professional medical advice and care.

Empowering Others: Spreading Awareness About Cholesterol Health

Individual efforts to manage cholesterol can have a ripple effect, influencing friends, family, and communities. How can you contribute to raising awareness about cholesterol health?

1. Share your experience: If you’ve successfully managed your cholesterol, consider sharing your story to inspire others
2. Participate in community health events: Many organizations host heart health screenings and educational programs
3. Advocate for heart-healthy policies: Support initiatives that promote cardiovascular health in schools, workplaces, and communities
4. Encourage loved ones to get tested: Motivate family members and friends to know their cholesterol numbers
5. Lead by example: Demonstrate heart-healthy habits in your daily life

What resources are available for those seeking to learn more about cholesterol health? Numerous reputable organizations provide comprehensive information and support:

• American Heart Association (AHA)
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• World Heart Federation

By actively engaging in cholesterol health awareness, you not only benefit your own health but also contribute to the well-being of your community.

What It Is and What to Do About It

Written by Jodi Helmer

• Cholesterol Tests
• Make Changes in the Kitchen
• Read Food Labels
• Get Moving
• Lose Extra Weight
• Quit Smoking
• Check to See What’s Working
• More

Has your doctor told you that you have “borderline” high cholesterol? That means your cholesterol level is above normal but not quite in the “high” range.

You have borderline high cholesterol if your total cholesterol is between 200 and 239 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

Your doctor will also consider other things, like how much of your total cholesterol is LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and how much of it is HDL (“good”) cholesterol.

Making simple changes in your lifestyle is often enough to bring borderline cholesterol levels down to the normal range. Some people may also need to take medicine for it. And keep in mind that other things, like diabetes, high blood pressure, and smoking, also affect your heart health; it’s not just about cholesterol.

If you have borderline cholesterol, your doctor will decide whether you need treatment by looking at these and other risk factors for heart disease. They may ask you to get an imaging test of your heart called a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan. This test reveals whether dangerous plaque has built up in your heart’s arteries.

You won’t know you have borderline cholesterol unless you get a cholesterol blood test. You should do that every 5 years.

The average American has a total cholesterol level of 200, which is in the borderline range.

You can turn it around before you get high cholesterol. Start with these steps.

Why Do I Need a Cholesterol Test?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance. Your liver makes all the cholesterol your body needs. But you take in more cholesterol from certain foods, such as those from animals. If you have too much cholesterol in your body, it can build up in the walls of your arteries (as “plaque”) and eventually harden. This process, called atherosclerosis, actually narrows the arteries, making it harder for blood to travel through them. 

Unfortunately, high cholesterol doesn’t cause symptoms. In later stages of atherosclerosis, though, you may have angina – severe chest pain from lack of blood flow to the heart. If an artery gets totally blocked, a heart attack results. A routine blood cholesterol test is a far better way of finding out what your cholesterol level is.

What Does a Cholesterol Test Measure?

In addition to measuring the total cholesterol in your blood, the standard cholesterol test (called a “lipid panel”) measures three specific kinds of fat:

Low-density lipoproteins (LDL). This is the “bad cholesterol,” the main cause of plaque buildup, which increases your risk of heart disease. In general, the lower the number, the better. But LDL cholesterol is only one part of a larger equation that measures a person’s overall risk of having a heart attack or stroke.  

For years, guidelines focused on specific target numbers for people to achieve to lower their risk. The most recent guidelines focus on a person’s overall risk and, based on that risk, recommend a certain percentage of LDL reduction as one part of a way to prevent serious heart and blood vessel problems.

High-density lipoproteins (HDL). This is the “good cholesterol.” It transports bad cholesterol from the blood to the liver, where it is excreted by the body. Your HDL is another part of the equation that identifies the risk of a cardiovascular event. In general, the higher the number the better, although, as with LDL, the emphasis has shifted from specific target numbers to ways to reduce the overall risk.

Triglycerides. Another type of fat in the bloodstream, triglycerides are also linked to heart disease. They are stored in fat cells throughout the body.

What Do Cholesterol Test Numbers Mean?

If you have a lipoprotein profile, it’s important to look at all the numbers from the cholesterol test, not just the total cholesterol number. That’s because LDL and HDL levels are two top signs of potential heart disease. Use the information below to interpret your results (with the help of your doctor, of course). This will help you get a better idea about your risk for heart disease.

Total blood cholesterol level:

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

LDL cholesterol levels:

190 mg/dL and above represents a high risk for heart disease and is a strong sign that you can benefit from intensive treatment, including lifestyle changes, diet, and statin therapy for reducing that risk.

For LDL levels that are equal to or less than 189 mg/dL, the guidelines recommend strategies for lowering LDL by 30% to 50%, depending on what other risk factors you have that can affect the health of your heart and blood vessels.

HDL cholesterol:

• High risk: Less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women

Triglycerides:

• Very high risk: 500 mg/dL and above
• High risk: 200-499 mg/dL
• Borderline high risk: 150-199 mg/dL
• Normal: Less than 150 mg/dL

Use your diet to help lower your LDL cholesterol and raise your HDL cholesterol.

For the biggest impact, choose foods that are low in saturated fats and trans fats, and high in fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. Whole grains, beans, apples, pears, oatmeal, salmon, walnuts, and olive oil are excellent heart-healthy choices.

Here are some more diet tips to help you lower your cholesterol:

Make meat lean. Cut back on red meats that are high in saturated fat and cholesterol, and choose only lean meats with very little visible fat. Examples of lean beef include London broil, eye of round, and filet mignon. Avoid processed meats like bacon and sausage, which are linked to higher odds of heart disease and diabetes.

Remove skin from poultry. That’s where much of the fat is.

Eat more seafood. It usually has less fat than other meat. The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings of fatty fish (like salmon, tuna, or mackerel) each week for heart health. Those fish are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for you.

Limit saturated fat. These are found in whole-fat dairy products, mayonnaise, and hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils or fats (such as stick margarine). These products may also contain trans fats, which can raise your cholesterol level.

Go liquid. For cooking, replace saturated fats that are solid at room temperature (such as butter and shortening) with liquid monounsaturated fats such as olive, canola, and flaxseed oils. There’s evidence that eating moderate amounts of monounsaturated fat – found in such foods as nuts, seeds, and avocados – may lower LDL cholesterol.

Add fiber with plant foods. Good sources include grapefruit, apples, beans and other legumes, barley, carrots, cabbage, and oatmeal.

Get two daily servings of plant sterol-rich foods. These foods, such as nuts, can help lower cholesterol. Plant sterols are also added to some soft margarines, granola bars, yogurts, and orange juice.

You need to know how much saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol are in your favorite foods. That can help you make better choices.

Too much saturated fat can drive up your cholesterol level. It’s found mostly in animal products. Cholesterol also is found in animal products. Your doctor or a dietitian can let you know what your daily limit should be.

Artificial trans fats can raise your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. They’re in packaged foods, like some crackers, cookies, pastries, and microwave popcorn.

Check the nutrition label. And because products marked “0 grams” of trans fats per serving can have up to a gram of trans fats, check the ingredients label, too. Anything marked “partially hydrogenated” is trans fat.

Exercise helps you get your cholesterol down from the borderline range.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, per day (150 minutes each week). You can also do a more intense workout for 75 minutes a week.

Taking a walk, riding your bike, playing a team sport, or taking a group fitness class will increase your heart rate while raising HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Push yourself, if you can, but keep in mind that moderate exercise is better than none at all.

You can have borderline high cholesterol and be at a healthy weight. But if you’re overweight, losing those extra pounds can help bring your cholesterol level back down.

Losing as little as 5% of your body weight can lower your cholesterol levels. One study found that adults who took part in a 12-week exercise program lowered their LDL by 18 points, and their total cholesterol dropped 26 points.

With a combination of weight loss and a healthy diet, it’s possible to lower LDL levels up to 30% – results that are similar to taking cholesterol-lowering drugs.

If you’re not sure whether your weight is in a healthy place, ask your doctor to check your body mass index (BMI). A normal BMI is 18 to 25. If your BMI is 25 or higher, ask your doctor for advice on the best types of physical activity for you.

If you smoke, kicking the habit can help raise your HDL (“good”) cholesterol up to 10%.

Have you tried to quit smoking before? For many people, it takes a couple of tries. Keep trying until it sticks. It’s worth it, for your whole body’s health.

During regular screening appointments, your doctor will check your cholesterol levels to see if the changes you’ve made have gotten you to your cholesterol goal.

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to lower borderline high cholesterol, your doctor may talk to you about medication.

Top Picks

What It Is and What to Do About It

Written by Jodi Helmer

• Cholesterol Tests
• Make Changes in the Kitchen
• Read Food Labels
• Get Moving
• Lose Extra Weight
• Quit Smoking
• Check to See What’s Working
• More

Has your doctor told you that you have “borderline” high cholesterol? That means your cholesterol level is above normal but not quite in the “high” range.

You have borderline high cholesterol if your total cholesterol is between 200 and 239 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

Your doctor will also consider other things, like how much of your total cholesterol is LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and how much of it is HDL (“good”) cholesterol.

Making simple changes in your lifestyle is often enough to bring borderline cholesterol levels down to the normal range. Some people may also need to take medicine for it. And keep in mind that other things, like diabetes, high blood pressure, and smoking, also affect your heart health; it’s not just about cholesterol.

If you have borderline cholesterol, your doctor will decide whether you need treatment by looking at these and other risk factors for heart disease. They may ask you to get an imaging test of your heart called a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan. This test reveals whether dangerous plaque has built up in your heart’s arteries.

You won’t know you have borderline cholesterol unless you get a cholesterol blood test. You should do that every 5 years.

The average American has a total cholesterol level of 200, which is in the borderline range.

You can turn it around before you get high cholesterol. Start with these steps.

Why Do I Need a Cholesterol Test?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance. Your liver makes all the cholesterol your body needs. But you take in more cholesterol from certain foods, such as those from animals. If you have too much cholesterol in your body, it can build up in the walls of your arteries (as “plaque”) and eventually harden. This process, called atherosclerosis, actually narrows the arteries, making it harder for blood to travel through them. 

Unfortunately, high cholesterol doesn’t cause symptoms. In later stages of atherosclerosis, though, you may have angina – severe chest pain from lack of blood flow to the heart. If an artery gets totally blocked, a heart attack results. A routine blood cholesterol test is a far better way of finding out what your cholesterol level is.

What Does a Cholesterol Test Measure?

In addition to measuring the total cholesterol in your blood, the standard cholesterol test (called a “lipid panel”) measures three specific kinds of fat:

Low-density lipoproteins (LDL). This is the “bad cholesterol,” the main cause of plaque buildup, which increases your risk of heart disease. In general, the lower the number, the better. But LDL cholesterol is only one part of a larger equation that measures a person’s overall risk of having a heart attack or stroke. 

For years, guidelines focused on specific target numbers for people to achieve to lower their risk. The most recent guidelines focus on a person’s overall risk and, based on that risk, recommend a certain percentage of LDL reduction as one part of a way to prevent serious heart and blood vessel problems.

High-density lipoproteins (HDL). This is the “good cholesterol.” It transports bad cholesterol from the blood to the liver, where it is excreted by the body. Your HDL is another part of the equation that identifies the risk of a cardiovascular event. In general, the higher the number the better, although, as with LDL, the emphasis has shifted from specific target numbers to ways to reduce the overall risk.

Triglycerides. Another type of fat in the bloodstream, triglycerides are also linked to heart disease. They are stored in fat cells throughout the body.

What Do Cholesterol Test Numbers Mean?

If you have a lipoprotein profile, it’s important to look at all the numbers from the cholesterol test, not just the total cholesterol number. That’s because LDL and HDL levels are two top signs of potential heart disease. Use the information below to interpret your results (with the help of your doctor, of course). This will help you get a better idea about your risk for heart disease.

Total blood cholesterol level:

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

LDL cholesterol levels:

190 mg/dL and above represents a high risk for heart disease and is a strong sign that you can benefit from intensive treatment, including lifestyle changes, diet, and statin therapy for reducing that risk.

For LDL levels that are equal to or less than 189 mg/dL, the guidelines recommend strategies for lowering LDL by 30% to 50%, depending on what other risk factors you have that can affect the health of your heart and blood vessels.

HDL cholesterol:

• High risk: Less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women

Triglycerides:

• Very high risk: 500 mg/dL and above
• High risk: 200-499 mg/dL
• Borderline high risk: 150-199 mg/dL
• Normal: Less than 150 mg/dL

Use your diet to help lower your LDL cholesterol and raise your HDL cholesterol.

For the biggest impact, choose foods that are low in saturated fats and trans fats, and high in fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. Whole grains, beans, apples, pears, oatmeal, salmon, walnuts, and olive oil are excellent heart-healthy choices.

Here are some more diet tips to help you lower your cholesterol:

Make meat lean. Cut back on red meats that are high in saturated fat and cholesterol, and choose only lean meats with very little visible fat. Examples of lean beef include London broil, eye of round, and filet mignon. Avoid processed meats like bacon and sausage, which are linked to higher odds of heart disease and diabetes.

Remove skin from poultry. That’s where much of the fat is.

Eat more seafood. It usually has less fat than other meat. The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings of fatty fish (like salmon, tuna, or mackerel) each week for heart health. Those fish are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for you.

Limit saturated fat. These are found in whole-fat dairy products, mayonnaise, and hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils or fats (such as stick margarine). These products may also contain trans fats, which can raise your cholesterol level.

Go liquid. For cooking, replace saturated fats that are solid at room temperature (such as butter and shortening) with liquid monounsaturated fats such as olive, canola, and flaxseed oils. There’s evidence that eating moderate amounts of monounsaturated fat – found in such foods as nuts, seeds, and avocados – may lower LDL cholesterol.

Add fiber with plant foods. Good sources include grapefruit, apples, beans and other legumes, barley, carrots, cabbage, and oatmeal.

Get two daily servings of plant sterol-rich foods. These foods, such as nuts, can help lower cholesterol. Plant sterols are also added to some soft margarines, granola bars, yogurts, and orange juice.

You need to know how much saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol are in your favorite foods. That can help you make better choices.

Too much saturated fat can drive up your cholesterol level. It’s found mostly in animal products. Cholesterol also is found in animal products. Your doctor or a dietitian can let you know what your daily limit should be.

Artificial trans fats can raise your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. They’re in packaged foods, like some crackers, cookies, pastries, and microwave popcorn.

Check the nutrition label. And because products marked “0 grams” of trans fats per serving can have up to a gram of trans fats, check the ingredients label, too. Anything marked “partially hydrogenated” is trans fat.

Exercise helps you get your cholesterol down from the borderline range.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, per day (150 minutes each week). You can also do a more intense workout for 75 minutes a week.

Taking a walk, riding your bike, playing a team sport, or taking a group fitness class will increase your heart rate while raising HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Push yourself, if you can, but keep in mind that moderate exercise is better than none at all.

You can have borderline high cholesterol and be at a healthy weight. But if you’re overweight, losing those extra pounds can help bring your cholesterol level back down.

Losing as little as 5% of your body weight can lower your cholesterol levels. One study found that adults who took part in a 12-week exercise program lowered their LDL by 18 points, and their total cholesterol dropped 26 points.

With a combination of weight loss and a healthy diet, it’s possible to lower LDL levels up to 30% – results that are similar to taking cholesterol-lowering drugs.

If you’re not sure whether your weight is in a healthy place, ask your doctor to check your body mass index (BMI). A normal BMI is 18 to 25. If your BMI is 25 or higher, ask your doctor for advice on the best types of physical activity for you.

If you smoke, kicking the habit can help raise your HDL (“good”) cholesterol up to 10%.

Have you tried to quit smoking before? For many people, it takes a couple of tries. Keep trying until it sticks. It’s worth it, for your whole body’s health.

During regular screening appointments, your doctor will check your cholesterol levels to see if the changes you’ve made have gotten you to your cholesterol goal.

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to lower borderline high cholesterol, your doctor may talk to you about medication.

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The cost of analyzes is indicated without taking biomaterial

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Description

Method of determination
Homogeneous enzymatic colorimetric.

Test material
Blood serum

Synonyms : High density lipoproteins; HDL; HDL; HDL cholesterol; alpha cholesterol; α-cholesterol. High density lipoprotein cholesterol; high density lipoprotein; Alpha-Lipoprotein Cholesterol; α-lipoprotein cholesterol; α-Lp cholesterol; HDL; HDL-C; HDL Cholesterol.

Brief description of the analyte Cholesterol-HDL

Blood lipoproteins transport lipids, including cholesterol, from one cell population to another. Unlike other lipoproteins, high-density lipoproteins (HDL) carry cholesterol from the cells of peripheral organs (including heart vessels, brain arteries, etc.) to the liver, where cholesterol is converted into bile acids and excreted from the body. In women, on average, HDL values ​​are higher than in men.

The level of HDL cholesterol in combination with data on existing diseases, age, gender, blood pressure, the fact of smoking, is taken into account when assessing the individual risk of developing severe complications of cardiovascular diseases (myocardial infarction or stroke) in the modified SCORE (Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation) scale ).

High HDL cholesterol is considered to be a beneficial anti-atherogenic factor that reduces cardiovascular risk. Low HDL cholesterol reflects the risk of premature atherosclerosis, a high risk of cardiovascular disease, and is often associated with hypertriglyceridemia in metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

For more information on the laboratory assessment of lipid metabolism parameters, please click here.

What is the purpose of determining the level of total HDL-cholesterol in blood serum? Increased levels are associated with a lower risk of atherosclerosis.

What can affect the HDL cholesterol test result

A change in diet can reduce blood cholesterol levels by 10-15%, although sensitivity to changes in dietary cholesterol levels and the effect of diet on cholesterol levels can be expressed differently in different people. To reduce the risk of complications of cardiovascular diseases, it is recommended to maintain the concentration of total cholesterol in the blood below 5.0 mmol / l. The therapeutic goal of lipid-lowering therapy is to lower LDL cholesterol levels.

Disorders of cholesterol metabolism, accompanied by an increase in its content in the blood, are characteristic of hypothyroidism. Secondary hypercholesterolemia is also observed in hepatic cholestasis, nephrotic syndrome, chronic renal failure, gout, diabetes and other diseases. Before starting therapy with lipid-lowering drugs, diseases that lead to an increase in cholesterol levels should be excluded.

Cholesterol level reflects the activity of synthesis processes in the liver. In severe liver damage, there is a significant decrease in the concentration of cholesterol in the blood. Acute tissue injury also causes a marked drop in total and LDL cholesterol levels. It begins within the first day after a heart attack, surgery or septicemia and can reach a 40% reduction from baseline. Lipid levels do not return to normal for up to three months. Therefore, a lipid study to assess the risk of atherosclerosis should not be performed within three months after acute conditions.

More details about the laboratory assessment of lipid metabolism parameters can be found here.

Preparation

Rules for preparing for a blood test to determine the level of HDL-Cholesterol

Strictly on an empty stomach, after an overnight fasting period of 8 to 14 hours. On the eve of the study, it is necessary to exclude increased psycho-emotional and physical activity (sports training), alcohol intake.

Indications for prescription

In what cases is a blood test to determine the level of HDL-Cholesterol

• Assessment of the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and their complications according to the modified SCORE scale.
• Atherosclerosis risk assessment.
• Detection of dyslipidemias.

Interpretation of results

Interpretation of test results contains information for the attending physician and is not a diagnosis. The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. An accurate diagnosis is made by the doctor, using both the results of this examination and the necessary information from other sources: history, results of other examinations, etc.

Interpretation of the results of determining the level of Cholesterol-HDL in blood serum

Units of measurement : mmol / l.

Alternate units : mg/dl.

Unit conversion : mg/dL x 0.026 ==> mmol/L.

Adults. When assessing cardiac risk, an HDL cholesterol level greater than 1.0 mmol/L in men and greater than 1.2 mmol/L in women indicates low risk. Low HDL cholesterol levels are associated with higher cardiovascular risk.

Reference values ​​ (population dispersion) HDL cholesterol concentrations for children and adolescents

9 0594

For the population dispersion of HDL cholesterol values ​​in adults,

, see here .

Increased level

1. Primary hereditary hypercholesterolemia (type IA and type IIB hyperlipoproteinemia).
2. Obesity.
3. Obstructive jaundice.
4. Nephrotic syndrome, chronic renal failure.
5. Diabetes mellitus.
6. Hypothyroidism.
7. Cushing’s syndrome.
8. Cholesterol-rich diet.
9. Pregnancy.
10. Anorexia nervosa.
11. Taking medications (beta-blockers, diuretics, progestins, oral contraceptives, glucocorticoids, androgens).

Level reduction

1. Atherosclerosis.
2. Familial hypo-alpha-lipoproteinemia (Tangier’s disease).
3. Cholestasis, chronic liver disease.
4. Nephrotic syndrome, chronic renal failure.
5. Diabetes mellitus.
6. Obesity.
7. Smoking.
8. Taking medications: beta-blockers, danazol, diuretics, progestins, androgens.
9. Diet rich in carbohydrates or polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Questions

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In this section you can find out how much it costs to complete this study in your city, read the description of the test and the table for interpreting the results. When choosing where to take an analysis of “HDL-Cholesterol (High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol)” in Birobidzhan and other cities of Russia, do not forget that the price of the analysis, the cost of the procedure for taking biomaterial, methods and terms for performing studies in regional medical offices may differ.

Take an analysis for total cholesterol

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The cost of analyzes is indicated without taking biomaterial

All sections

Description

Method of determination
Enzymatic (CHOD-PAP).

Test material
Blood serum

Synonyms: Cholesterol, cholesterol. Blood cholesterol, Cholesterol, Chol, Cholesterol total.

Brief characteristics of the analyte Total cholesterol

About 80% of all cholesterol is synthesized by the human body (liver, intestines, kidneys, adrenal glands, gonads), the remaining 20% ​​comes from food of animal origin (meat, butter, eggs). Cholesterol is insoluble in water; it is transported in the blood in lipoprotein complexes. There are fractions of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL), and some others that differ in composition and functions. Total cholesterol includes cholesterol contained in all types of circulating lipoproteins, esterified and free.

The content of cholesterol in the blood depends to a large extent on age. Its level at birth is less than 3.0 mmol / l, then gradually increases. Emerging differences in its concentration are associated with gender. In men, the concentration of cholesterol in the blood increases in early and middle age and decreases in old age. In women, cholesterol levels increase more slowly with age, up to menopause; in the future may exceed cholesterol levels in men. The described age-related changes in the content of cholesterol in the blood are associated with the action of sex hormones: estrogens reduce, and androgens increase the level of total cholesterol. During pregnancy, there is a physiological increase in total cholesterol levels.

Determination of cholesterol is mainly used to assess the risk of developing atherosclerosis and in the diagnosis of any kind of lipid metabolism disorders. It has been established that elevated blood cholesterol levels contribute to the development of vascular atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. The level of total cholesterol in combination with data on existing diseases, age, gender, blood pressure, the fact of smoking, is taken into account when assessing the individual risk of developing severe complications of cardiovascular diseases (myocardial infarction or stroke) according to the SCORE (Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation) scale. It is advisable to investigate cholesterol in combination with the determination of triglycerides (see test No. 30), HDL cholesterol (see Test No. 32), the calculation of non-HDL cholesterol (see Test No. NHDL) and LDL cholesterol (see Test No. 33), since For a correct assessment of cardiovascular risks, it is important to understand the ratio of different fractions of lipoproteins. Thus, high HDL cholesterol indicates a low risk, and the detection of an increased concentration of triglycerides, in combination with a decrease in HDL, makes it possible to suspect certain pathological conditions (including metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance), which are themselves associated with increased cardiovascular risk.

What is the purpose of determining the level of total cholesterol in the blood? . To reduce the risk of complications of cardiovascular diseases, it is recommended to maintain the concentration of total cholesterol in the blood below 5.0 mmol / l. The therapeutic goal of lipid-lowering therapy is to lower LDL cholesterol levels.

Disorders of cholesterol metabolism, accompanied by an increase in its content in the blood, are characteristic of hypothyroidism. Secondary hypercholesterolemia is also observed in hepatic cholestasis, nephrotic syndrome, chronic renal failure, gout, diabetes and other diseases. Before starting therapy with lipid-lowering drugs, diseases that lead to an increase in cholesterol levels should be excluded.

Cholesterol level reflects the activity of synthesis processes in the liver. In severe liver damage, there is a significant decrease in the concentration of cholesterol in the blood. Acute tissue injury also causes a marked drop in total and LDL cholesterol levels. It begins within the first day after a heart attack, surgery or septicemia and can reach a 40% reduction from baseline. Lipid levels do not return to normal for up to three months. Therefore, a lipid study to assess the risk of atherosclerosis should not be performed within three months after acute conditions.

More details about the laboratory assessment of lipid metabolism parameters can be found here.

Preparation

Rules for preparation for the study Cholesterol total

Strictly on an empty stomach, after a night fasting period of 8 to 14 hours. On the eve of the study, it is necessary to exclude increased psycho-emotional and physical activity (sports training), alcohol intake.

Indications for prescription

In what cases is a blood test for Cholesterol total

• Assessment of the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and their complications using the SCORE scale.
• Determining the type of dyslipidemia.
• The choice of therapeutic tactics.
• As part of biochemical profiles to assess metabolic changes in a patient.

Interpretation of results

Interpretation of test results contains information for the attending physician and is not a diagnosis. The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. An accurate diagnosis is made by the doctor, using both the results of this examination and the necessary information from other sources: history, results of other examinations, etc.

Interpretation of the results of the study on total cholesterol in the blood

Units of measurement: mmol / l.

Alternate units: mg/dl.

Unit conversion: mg/dL x 0.026 ==> mmol/L.

Adults. Desired level

Reference values ​​ (population dispersion) concentrations of total cholesterol for children and adolescents, mmol/l:

Age	Men	Women
	2. 95 – 5.25	2.90 – 5.18
5 – 10 years	3.13 – 5.25	2.26 – 5.30
10 – 15 years	3.08 – 5.23	3.21 – 5.20
15 – 18 years	2.93 – 5.10	3.08 – 5.18

Data on the population dispersion of total cholesterol values ​​in adults –

see here.

Elevation (hypercholesterolemia)

Primary hyperlipidemias: combined hyperlipidemia, hyperlipoproteinemia types I, IV, V and hyper-alpha-lipoproteinemia.

Secondary hyperlipidaemias:

1. Liver diseases, intra- and extrahepatic cholestasis.
2. Glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome, chronic renal failure.
3. Malignant tumors of the pancreas and prostate.
4. Hypothyroidism.
5. Gout.
6. Ischemic heart disease.
7. Diabetes mellitus.
8. Pregnancy.
9. Alcoholism.
10. Isolated somatotropic hormone (GH) deficiency.
11. Food rich in cholesterol and unsaturated fatty acids.
12. Use of drugs such as androgens, cyclosporine, diuretics, ergocalciferol (high doses), glucocorticosteroids, levodopa, amiodarone.

Decreased level (hypocholesterolemia)

1. Cachexia, starvation.
2. Malabsorption syndrome.
3. Major burns.
4. Severe acute diseases and infections.
5. Hepatocyte necrosis, end-stage liver cirrhosis, hepatocarcinoma.
6. Sepsis.
7. Hyperthyroidism.
8. Hypo-alpha- and beta-lipoproteinemia.
9. α-lipoprotein deficiency.
10. Megaloblastic anemia.
11. Thalassemia.
12. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
13. Rheumatoid arthritis.
14. Intestinal lymphangiectasia.
15. Taking cholesterol-lowering drugs.