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Cholesterol level 234. Borderline High Cholesterol: Understanding and Managing Your 234 Level

What does a cholesterol level of 234 mean for your health. How can you lower your borderline high cholesterol naturally. When should you consider medication for cholesterol management. What lifestyle changes are most effective for improving cholesterol levels.

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Decoding Your Cholesterol Numbers: What 234 Means

A cholesterol level of 234 mg/dL falls into the “borderline high” category, which ranges from 200 to 239 mg/dL. This level indicates an increased risk of cardiovascular disease compared to optimal levels, but it’s not yet in the high-risk zone. Understanding the components of your cholesterol profile is crucial for assessing your overall heart health.

Breaking Down the Cholesterol Test

A standard lipid panel measures several key components:

  • Total cholesterol
  • Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) – the “bad” cholesterol
  • High-density lipoprotein (HDL) – the “good” cholesterol
  • Triglycerides

Your total cholesterol of 234 mg/dL provides an overview, but it’s essential to examine the individual components for a comprehensive understanding of your cardiovascular risk.

Interpreting LDL Levels

LDL cholesterol is the primary concern when assessing heart disease risk. Current guidelines focus on reducing LDL levels by a certain percentage based on individual risk factors, rather than aiming for specific target numbers. For levels below 189 mg/dL, recommendations typically involve strategies to lower LDL by 30% to 50%.

The Importance of HDL Cholesterol

HDL cholesterol plays a protective role by removing excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. Higher levels are generally beneficial. For men, an HDL level below 40 mg/dL is considered high risk, while for women, the high-risk threshold is below 50 mg/dL.

Lifestyle Modifications to Lower Borderline High Cholesterol

For many individuals with borderline high cholesterol, lifestyle changes can be highly effective in bringing levels down to a healthy range. Here are some key strategies to consider:

Dietary Changes for Cholesterol Management

Modifying your diet is often the first line of defense against high cholesterol. Consider incorporating these dietary changes:

  • Increase fiber intake through whole grains, fruits, and vegetables
  • Choose lean proteins like fish, poultry, and plant-based options
  • Limit saturated and trans fats
  • Include heart-healthy fats from sources like olive oil, avocados, and nuts
  • Reduce added sugars and refined carbohydrates

The Power of Physical Activity

Regular exercise can significantly impact cholesterol levels. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week. This can help raise HDL levels and lower LDL and triglycerides.

Weight Management and Cholesterol

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for managing cholesterol levels. Even modest weight loss can lead to improvements in your lipid profile. Focus on sustainable lifestyle changes rather than drastic diets for long-term success.

The Role of Medications in Cholesterol Management

While lifestyle modifications are the foundation of cholesterol management, some individuals may require medication to achieve optimal levels. Your healthcare provider will consider various factors when determining if medication is necessary.

Statins: The First-Line Treatment

Statins are the most commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications. They work by blocking a substance your liver needs to produce cholesterol, effectively lowering LDL levels. Statins may be recommended if lifestyle changes alone are insufficient or if you have other cardiovascular risk factors.

Other Cholesterol-Lowering Medications

In addition to statins, other medications may be prescribed depending on your specific situation:

  • Bile acid sequestrants
  • Cholesterol absorption inhibitors
  • PCSK9 inhibitors
  • Fibrates
  • Niacin

Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your individual needs and risk factors.

Monitoring and Adjusting Your Cholesterol Management Plan

Managing borderline high cholesterol is an ongoing process that requires regular monitoring and adjustments. Here’s what you need to know about tracking your progress:

Frequency of Cholesterol Tests

For individuals with borderline high cholesterol, more frequent testing may be recommended. Your healthcare provider might suggest follow-up tests every 3-6 months to assess the effectiveness of lifestyle changes or medications.

Interpreting Changes in Your Cholesterol Levels

As you implement lifestyle changes or start medication, you may see fluctuations in your cholesterol levels. It’s important to look at the overall trend rather than focusing on small variations. Significant improvements may take several months to become apparent.

Beyond Cholesterol: Assessing Overall Cardiovascular Risk

While cholesterol levels are important, they’re just one piece of the cardiovascular health puzzle. Your healthcare provider will consider various factors when assessing your overall risk and determining the best course of action.

Additional Risk Factors to Consider

Several other factors contribute to your cardiovascular risk profile:

  • Blood pressure
  • Smoking status
  • Family history of heart disease
  • Age and gender
  • Presence of diabetes or pre-diabetes
  • Body mass index (BMI)
  • Physical activity level

The Role of Advanced Testing

In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests to better assess your cardiovascular risk. One such test is the coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, which can detect the presence of plaque in your heart’s arteries.

Nutrition Strategies for Cholesterol Management

Diet plays a crucial role in managing cholesterol levels. Here are some specific nutritional strategies to help lower your borderline high cholesterol:

Embrace Heart-Healthy Fats

Not all fats are created equal when it comes to cholesterol management. Focus on incorporating these heart-healthy fats into your diet:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts
  • Monounsaturated fats from olive oil, avocados, and nuts
  • Polyunsaturated fats from seeds and vegetable oils

The Power of Plant Sterols and Stanols

Plant sterols and stanols are naturally occurring compounds that can help lower LDL cholesterol. They work by blocking the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines. You can find these compounds in:

  • Fortified foods like certain margarines, yogurts, and orange juices
  • Supplements
  • Naturally occurring in small amounts in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains

Fiber: Your Cholesterol-Lowering Ally

Increasing your fiber intake can significantly impact your cholesterol levels. Aim for at least 25-30 grams of fiber per day from sources such as:

  • Whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice)
  • Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)
  • Fruits (especially berries and apples)
  • Vegetables (particularly leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables)
  • Nuts and seeds

Exercise Strategies for Optimal Cholesterol Management

Physical activity is a powerful tool for managing cholesterol levels. Here’s how to incorporate exercise into your cholesterol-lowering plan:

Finding the Right Exercise Balance

A combination of aerobic exercise and strength training can provide optimal benefits for cholesterol management. Aim for:

  • 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week
  • Strength training exercises for all major muscle groups at least twice a week

The Impact of Different Exercise Types on Cholesterol

Various forms of exercise can affect your cholesterol profile in different ways:

  • Aerobic exercise (e.g., brisk walking, jogging, cycling) can help raise HDL levels and lower LDL and triglycerides
  • High-intensity interval training (HIIT) may be particularly effective for improving HDL levels
  • Resistance training can help lower LDL levels and improve overall body composition

Consistency is Key

Regular, consistent exercise is more important than occasional intense workouts. Find activities you enjoy and can sustain long-term for the best results in managing your cholesterol levels.

Lifestyle Factors Beyond Diet and Exercise

While diet and exercise are crucial components of cholesterol management, other lifestyle factors can also impact your levels:

The Impact of Stress on Cholesterol

Chronic stress can negatively affect your cholesterol levels by:

  • Increasing LDL cholesterol
  • Lowering HDL cholesterol
  • Raising triglyceride levels

Incorporate stress-management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga into your daily routine to help mitigate these effects.

The Role of Sleep in Cholesterol Regulation

Poor sleep quality and insufficient sleep duration have been linked to unfavorable changes in cholesterol levels. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support healthy cholesterol regulation.

Alcohol Consumption and Cholesterol

Moderate alcohol consumption may have a positive effect on HDL cholesterol levels. However, excessive alcohol intake can lead to increased triglycerides and other health issues. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation:

  • Up to one drink per day for women
  • Up to two drinks per day for men

Remember that if you don’t currently drink alcohol, there’s no need to start for potential cholesterol benefits.

Understanding the Long-Term Impact of Cholesterol Management

Managing your borderline high cholesterol is not just about improving your numbers; it’s about reducing your long-term risk of cardiovascular disease. Here’s what you need to know about the long-term benefits of cholesterol management:

Reduced Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke

By lowering your cholesterol levels and maintaining them within a healthy range, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing heart disease and experiencing a heart attack or stroke. This risk reduction is cumulative over time, meaning that consistent cholesterol management can have a substantial impact on your long-term cardiovascular health.

Impact on Overall Health and Longevity

The lifestyle changes associated with cholesterol management, such as improving your diet, increasing physical activity, and managing stress, can have far-reaching benefits beyond just heart health. These changes can contribute to:

  • Improved weight management
  • Better blood sugar control
  • Enhanced mental health and cognitive function
  • Increased energy and overall well-being
  • Potential reduction in the risk of other chronic diseases

The Importance of Consistency and Long-Term Commitment

Managing cholesterol is not a short-term fix but a lifelong commitment to your health. Consistency in your lifestyle changes and adherence to any prescribed medications are key to maintaining the benefits of cholesterol management over time. Regular check-ups and ongoing communication with your healthcare provider will help ensure that your management plan remains effective and appropriate for your needs as you age.

By taking proactive steps to manage your borderline high cholesterol level of 234, you’re investing in your long-term health and well-being. Remember that small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements over time, reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease and enhancing your overall quality of life.

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

Age

HDL cholesterol level, mmol/l

Men Women

0.93 – 1.89
10 – 15 years 0.96 – 1.91 0.96 – 1.81
15 – 18 years old 0.78 – 1.63 0.91 – 1.91

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.

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        900 06

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      The cost of analyzes is indicated without taking biomaterial

      All sections

      Description

      Method of determination
      Friedwald calculation using total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides. At a triglyceride level of more than 4.5 mmol / l – measurement by a direct method (colorimetry using cholesterol oxidase and cholesterol esterase).

      Test material
      Blood serum

      Synonyms : LDL; Low density lipoproteins; LDL; LDL cholesterol; Low density lipoprotein cholesterol; Cholesterol beta-lipoproteins; Beta lipoproteins; Beta LP.

      LDL; LDL-C; Low density lipoprotein cholesterol; Low density lipoprotein.

      Brief characteristics of the analyte

      Cholesterol-LDL Lipoproteins in the blood carry out the transport of lipids of various classes, including cholesterol, from one cell population to another. Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are the main transport form of cholesterol, transporting it mainly in the form of cholesterol esters. They belong to beta lipoproteins. It has been proven that the content of LDL cholesterol is more correlated with the risk of atherosclerosis than the level of total cholesterol, since it is this fraction that ensures the transfer of both dietary and synthesized cholesterol to the cells of organs and tissues. In pathology, cholesterol-rich LDL accumulates on the inner walls of the arteries at the sites of formation of atherosclerotic plaques, which narrow the lumen of the vessels and contribute to thrombosis. Therefore, the study of LDL cholesterol is important, both for assessing the risk of atherosclerosis and its complications (heart attack, stroke), and for monitoring the effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapy.

      Usually, a standard lipid profile is used in screening for cardiovascular risk factors, which includes the study of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL cholesterol by calculation using the Friedwald formula. This calculation method for estimating LDL cholesterol has been used in epidemiological and clinical studies, on the basis of which basic clinical recommendations have been established for the desired level of LDL cholesterol for apparently healthy people and its target therapeutic values ​​for people at high risk of developing complications of atherosclerosis. The calculation method for assessing LDL cholesterol remains the most common.

      Calculation of LDL cholesterol has some limitations. The Friedwald formula assumes, as an assumption, a constant ratio of triglycerides and cholesterol in very low density lipoproteins and the absence of an excess of remnant (residual) lipoproteins. In hypertriglyceridemia and chylomicronemia, these assumptions are violated, the use of the Friedwald formula at a high level of triglycerides leads to an underestimation of the calculated result of LDL cholesterol.

      What is the purpose of determining the level of LDL cholesterol in the blood

      The determination of LDL cholesterol in blood serum is used in combination with other lipid profile tests to assess cardiac risk (reflects the content of “bad cholesterol”). Increased levels are associated with a greater risk of atherosclerosis. When triglyceride concentrations are greater than 4.5 mmol/l and LDL cholesterol is low (less than 1.3 mmol/l), non-HDL cholesterol should be preferred to evaluate cardiac risk and the effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapy.

      Attention! This study is not performed separately, only in combination with tests No. 30 Triglycerides, No. 31 Total cholesterol, No. 32 HDL cholesterol.

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

      Preparation

      Rules for preparing for LDL-cholesterol blood test

      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 for LDL 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-LDL in blood serum

      Units of measurement : mmol/l.

      Alternate units : mg/dl.

      Unit conversion : mg/dL x 0.0259 ==> mmol/L.

      Reference values ​​

      Currently, the clinical guidelines of European and domestic medical communities consider LDL cholesterol as the main modifiable risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases and their complications (heart attack, stroke), regardless of gender and the presence of an established diagnosis of cardiovascular disease. With ongoing lipid-lowering therapy, lowering LDL cholesterol is considered as the primary goal of prevention.

      A decrease in its level in the blood is accompanied by a decrease in the risk of death from cardiovascular diseases. The choice of the target value of LDL depends on the degree of individual risk, which is assessed by the attending physician based on the totality of data.

      Adults

      According to current clinical guidelines, the desired values ​​of LDL cholesterol, depending on the individual risk group for developing cardiovascular diseases and their complications, to which the patient is assigned, are as follows:

      • for low- and moderate-risk individuals – desirable LDL-cholesterol values
      • for high risk individuals – desired LDL cholesterol values
      • for very high risk individuals – desired LDL cholesterol values

      Children and adolescents

      Reference values ​​(population dispersion) of LDL cholesterol concentration, mmol/l:

      90 629

      Age Men Women
      5 – 10 years 1. 63 – 3.34 1.76 – 3.63
      10 – 15 years 1.66 – 3.44 1.76 – 3.52
      15 – 18 years 1.61 – 3.37 1.53 – 3.55

      Population scatter data LDL cholesterol in adults – see here.

      Boost

      1. Primary hereditary hypercholesterolemia (hyperlipoproteinemia types IA and IIB types), rare hereditary fermentopathy (deficiency of acid lysosomal lipase).
      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).

      Decreased values ​​

      1. Hypo- and a-beta-lipoproteinemia.
      2. Alpha-lipoprotein deficiency (Tangier’s disease).
      3. Deficiency of LCAT (lecithin-cholesterol-acyl synetatase).
      4. Hyperthyroidism.
      5. Reye’s syndrome.
      6. Chronic anemia.
      7. Acute stress.
      8. Taking medications: cholestyramine, clofibrate, lovastatin, neomycin, interferon, thyroxine, estrogens.
      9. Diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids.
      10. Malabsorption syndrome.
      11. Arthritis.
      12. Chronic lung diseases.
      13. Myeloma.

      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 the analysis “Cholesterol-LDL (Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, LDL, Cholesterol LDL)” in Zheleznogorsk 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.