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Hdl ldl ratio chart. HDL vs LDL Cholesterol: Ratio, Levels, and Age-Specific Guidelines

What is the difference between HDL and LDL cholesterol. How does the HDL to LDL ratio impact heart health. What are the recommended cholesterol levels for adults and children. How do cholesterol levels vary by age and gender.

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Understanding Cholesterol: HDL, LDL, and Total Cholesterol

Cholesterol, a fatty substance produced by the liver and found in certain foods, plays a crucial role in our body’s functioning. However, maintaining the right balance is essential for heart health. Let’s delve into the different types of cholesterol and their significance.

What is Total Cholesterol?

Total cholesterol represents the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood. It comprises three main components:

  • Low-density lipoproteins (LDL)
  • High-density lipoproteins (HDL)
  • Triglycerides

LDL: The “Bad” Cholesterol

LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol. Why is LDL considered harmful? It tends to accumulate in the arteries, forming plaques that can obstruct blood flow and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

HDL: The “Good” Cholesterol

HDL cholesterol, on the other hand, is known as “good” cholesterol. How does HDL benefit our health? It helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, transporting it back to the liver for processing and elimination. Higher levels of HDL are associated with better protection against heart disease.

Triglycerides: The Building Blocks

Triglycerides are another type of fat included in the total cholesterol count. They are considered the “building blocks” of cholesterol. High levels of triglycerides, especially when combined with low HDL levels, can significantly increase the risk of heart disease.

The Importance of Cholesterol Ratio and Regular Testing

Understanding your cholesterol ratio is crucial for assessing heart health risk. The American Heart Association recommends that all adults have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years, starting at age 20. Why is this age significant? Cholesterol levels can start to rise around this time, making it an ideal point to begin monitoring.

For individuals with high cholesterol or other cardiac risk factors, such as diabetes, more frequent testing may be necessary. How often should high-risk individuals get tested? It’s best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate testing frequency based on individual risk factors.

Cholesterol Levels: What’s Normal and What’s Concerning?

According to the 2018 guidelines published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), there are specific ranges for acceptable, borderline, and high cholesterol levels in adults. These values are based on fasting measurements and are expressed in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

Total Cholesterol

  • Good: Less than 200 mg/dL (the lower, the better)
  • Borderline: 200-239 mg/dL
  • High: 240 mg/dL or higher

HDL Cholesterol

  • Ideal: 60 mg/dL or higher
  • Acceptable: 40 mg/dL or higher for men, 50 mg/dL or higher for women
  • Low: Less than 40 mg/dL for men, less than 50 mg/dL for women

LDL Cholesterol

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

Triglycerides

  • Normal: Less than 150 mg/dL
  • Borderline high: 150-199 mg/dL
  • High: 200 mg/dL or higher
  • Very high: 500 mg/dL or higher

Gender Differences in Cholesterol Levels

While cholesterol guidelines are generally similar for men and women over the age of 20, there are some notable differences, particularly concerning HDL cholesterol. How do cholesterol levels differ between men and women?

Women typically require higher levels of HDL cholesterol than men. This difference is reflected in the acceptable HDL levels: 40 mg/dL or higher for men, and 50 mg/dL or higher for women. Why do women need more HDL? This disparity is believed to be related to the protective effects of estrogen on heart health before menopause.

It’s worth noting that a woman’s risk for high cholesterol increases after she enters menopause. Why does menopause affect cholesterol levels? The decline in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to changes in lipid metabolism, often resulting in higher LDL and lower HDL levels.

Cholesterol Guidelines for Children

Monitoring cholesterol levels is not just important for adults; it’s crucial for children as well. The JACC provides specific guidelines for cholesterol levels in children, emphasizing the importance of early detection and management of potential cardiovascular risks.

When Should Children Have Their Cholesterol Checked?

Current guidelines recommend that all children have their cholesterol checked between ages 9 and 11 years, and then again between ages 17 and 21 years. For children with additional risk factors, such as diabetes, obesity, or a family history of high cholesterol, testing should occur earlier and more frequently:

  • First check: Between ages 2 and 8 years
  • Follow-up check: Between ages 12 and 16 years

Cholesterol Levels for Children

The following are the recommended cholesterol levels for children, according to the JACC (all values in mg/dL):

Total Cholesterol

  • Good: 170 or less
  • Borderline: 170-199
  • High: 200 or higher

HDL Cholesterol

  • Good: Greater than 45
  • Borderline: 40-45

LDL Cholesterol

  • Good: Less than 110
  • Borderline: 110-129
  • High: 130 or higher

Triglycerides

  • For children 0-9 years:
    • Good: Less than 75
    • Borderline: 75-99
    • High: 100 or higher
  • For children 10-19 years:
    • Good: Less than 90
    • Borderline: 90-129
    • High: 130 or higher

Factors Influencing Cholesterol Levels

Several factors can influence an individual’s cholesterol levels. Understanding these factors can help in managing and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. What are the primary contributors to cholesterol levels?

Age and Gender

As we age, cholesterol levels tend to climb. Men are generally at a higher risk than women for elevated cholesterol levels, especially before women reach menopause. Why does age affect cholesterol? With advancing age, the liver becomes less efficient at removing LDL cholesterol from the blood.

Diet

Dietary choices play a significant role in cholesterol levels. Foods high in saturated and trans fats can increase LDL cholesterol. Conversely, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. How can diet impact cholesterol? Consuming foods high in soluble fiber, such as oats and beans, can help lower LDL cholesterol by reducing its absorption in the intestines.

Physical Activity

Regular exercise can help increase HDL cholesterol levels while decreasing LDL and triglycerides. How much exercise is needed to impact cholesterol? The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity per week for adults.

Genetics

Family history can play a role in determining an individual’s cholesterol levels. Some people inherit genes that cause their bodies to produce too much cholesterol or process it inefficiently. What is familial hypercholesterolemia? This inherited condition results in very high LDL cholesterol levels from birth and significantly increases the risk of early heart disease.

Body Weight

Being overweight or obese tends to lower HDL cholesterol and raise LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. How does weight loss affect cholesterol? Even a small weight loss (5-10% of body weight) can help improve cholesterol numbers.

Strategies for Managing Cholesterol Levels

Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is crucial for overall cardiovascular health. What are some effective strategies for managing cholesterol?

Dietary Modifications

Adopting a heart-healthy diet is one of the most effective ways to manage cholesterol levels. What foods can help lower cholesterol?

  • Increase fiber intake through whole grains, fruits, and vegetables
  • Choose lean proteins, such as fish, poultry, and legumes
  • Incorporate healthy fats from sources like olive oil, nuts, and avocados
  • Limit saturated and trans fats found in red meat, full-fat dairy products, and processed foods

Regular Exercise

Physical activity is crucial for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. How does exercise affect cholesterol? Regular exercise can increase HDL cholesterol while decreasing LDL and triglycerides. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for cholesterol management. How does weight affect cholesterol levels? Excess weight tends to increase LDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol. Even a modest weight loss can significantly improve cholesterol numbers.

Smoking Cessation

Quitting smoking can have a positive impact on cholesterol levels. How does smoking affect cholesterol? Smoking lowers HDL cholesterol and increases the risk of heart disease. Quitting can help raise HDL levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems.

Medication

In some cases, lifestyle changes alone may not be sufficient to manage cholesterol levels. What medications are used to treat high cholesterol? Statins are the most commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering drugs, but other options include bile acid sequestrants, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, and PCSK9 inhibitors. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

The Role of HDL to LDL Ratio in Assessing Heart Health Risk

While individual cholesterol numbers are important, the ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol can provide valuable insights into overall heart health risk. How is the HDL to LDL ratio calculated and interpreted?

Calculating the HDL to LDL Ratio

The HDL to LDL ratio is determined by dividing the HDL cholesterol level by the LDL cholesterol level. For example, if someone has an HDL of 50 mg/dL and an LDL of 100 mg/dL, their HDL to LDL ratio would be 0.5.

Interpreting the Ratio

Generally, a higher ratio is considered better for heart health. What is considered a good HDL to LDL ratio? While interpretations may vary, here’s a general guideline:

  • Ideal: Above 0.4
  • Good: 0.3 to 0.4
  • Average: 0.2 to 0.3
  • Below average: Below 0.2

Why is the ratio important? A higher ratio indicates a better balance between “good” and “bad” cholesterol, suggesting a lower risk of heart disease. However, it’s crucial to remember that the ratio should be considered alongside individual HDL and LDL levels and other risk factors for a comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular health.

Limitations of the Ratio

While the HDL to LDL ratio can be a useful tool, it’s not the only factor to consider when assessing heart health risk. What other factors should be taken into account? Total cholesterol levels, triglycerides, blood pressure, family history, and lifestyle factors all play important roles in determining overall cardiovascular risk.

The Importance of Regular Cholesterol Monitoring

Regular cholesterol monitoring is crucial for maintaining heart health and preventing cardiovascular disease. Why is ongoing cholesterol monitoring important?

Early Detection of Problems

Regular testing allows for the early detection of cholesterol abnormalities. How can early detection benefit health outcomes? Identifying and addressing high cholesterol early can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Tracking Treatment Effectiveness

For individuals on cholesterol-lowering medications or lifestyle modification programs, regular monitoring helps track the effectiveness of these interventions. How often should cholesterol be checked in these cases? The frequency of testing may vary based on individual circumstances, but it’s typically recommended every 3-6 months until levels stabilize.

Adjusting Treatment Plans

Regular monitoring allows healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans as needed. Why might treatment plans need adjustment? Cholesterol levels can change over time due to various factors, including age, weight changes, and lifestyle modifications. Regular testing ensures that treatment remains optimized for each individual.

Motivating Lifestyle Changes

Seeing improvements in cholesterol numbers can be a powerful motivator for maintaining heart-healthy habits. How can tracking cholesterol levels encourage lifestyle changes? Visible progress in cholesterol numbers can reinforce the importance of diet, exercise, and other lifestyle modifications in managing heart health.

In conclusion, understanding the different types of cholesterol, their ratios, and the factors that influence them is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health. Regular monitoring, coupled with appropriate lifestyle modifications and medical interventions when necessary, can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and related complications. By staying informed and proactive about cholesterol management, individuals can take control of their heart health and work towards a healthier future.

By age, LDL, HDL, and More

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

  • Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
  • Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
  • Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Recommended total cholesterol levels are under 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) for most adults and under 170 mg/dL for children. Women typically need more HDL (good cholesterol) than men.

Good heart health is like a building block: It’s cumulative. This is particularly true when it comes to high cholesterol.

Cholesterol is a fatty substance your liver makes. It’s also found in certain foods. Your body needs some cholesterol to function properly. But having too much of the bad type of cholesterol — low-density lipoprotein (LDL) — puts you at risk for having a heart attack or stroke.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), having high cholesterol raises your risk for heart disease.

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “men,” “women,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

Your total cholesterol level is the overall amount of cholesterol found in your blood. It consists of:

  • low-density lipoproteins (LDLs)
  • high-density lipoproteins (HDLs)
  • triglycerides

LDL is also called “bad” cholesterol because it blocks your blood vessels and increases your risk for heart disease. HDL is considered “good” cholesterol because it helps protect you from heart disease. The higher your HDL, the better.

Total cholesterol also includes a triglyceride count. These are another type of fat that can build up in the body and are considered the “building blocks” of cholesterol.

High levels of triglycerides and low levels of HDL raise your risk for heart disease.

The American Heart Association recommends that all adults have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years, starting at age 20, which is when cholesterol levels can start to rise.

As we age, cholesterol levels tend to climb. Men are generally at a higher risk than women for higher cholesterol. However, a woman’s risk goes up after she enters menopause.

For those with high cholesterol and other cardiac risk factors, such as diabetes, more frequent testing is recommended.

Cholesterol chart for adults

According to the 2018 guidelines on the management of blood cholesterol published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), these are the acceptable, borderline, and high measurements for adults.

All values are in mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) and are based on fasting measurements.

Total cholesterolHDL cholesterolLDL cholesterolTriglycerides
GoodLess than 200 (but the lower the better)Ideal is 60 or higher; 40 or higher for men and 50 or higher for women is acceptableLess than 100; below 70 if coronary artery disease is presentLess than 149; ideal is
Borderline to moderately elevated200–239n/a130–159150–199
High240 or higher60 or higher160 or higher; 190 considered very high200 or higher; 500 considered very high
Lown/aless than 40 for men and less than 50 for womenn/an/a

Cholesterol levels in men vs.

women

Generally, guidelines are similar for men and women over the age of 20, though they differ when it comes to HDL cholesterol, as seen above. Women should aim for higher levels of HDL cholesterol.

Children who are physically active, eat a nutrient-dense diet, are not overweight, and do not have a family history of high cholesterol are at a lower risk for having high cholesterol.

Current guidelines recommend that all children have their cholesterol checked between ages 9 and 11 years, and then again between ages 17 and 21 years.

Children with more risk factors, such as having diabetes, obesity, or a family history of high cholesterol, should be checked between ages 2 and 8 years, and again between ages 12 and 16 years.

Cholesterol chart for children

According to the JACC, the following are the recommended cholesterol levels for children:

All values are in mg/dL:

Total cholesterolHDL cholesterolLDL cholesterolTriglycerides
Good170 or lessGreater than 45Less than 110Less than 75 in children 0–9; less than 90 in children 10–19
Borderline170–19940-45110–12975–99 in children 0–9; 90–129 in children 10–19
High200 or highern/a130 or higher100 or more in children 0–9; 130 or more in children 10–19
Lown/aLess than 40n/an/a

Your doctor may recommend a plan of treatment for high cholesterol that includes lifestyle modifications and potentially medication. This will vary based on factors like other medications you may be taking, your age, sex, and general health.

Here are some medications more commonly prescribed for high cholesterol:

  • Statins. Statins lower the LDL cholesterol levels by slowing the production of cholesterol by the liver.
  • Bile acid sequestrants. Bile acid sequestrants are substances used in digestion. These resins can reduce cholesterol levels in the blood by binding to bile acids and removing them, forcing the body to break down LDL cholesterol to create bile acids instead.
  • Cholesterol absorption inhibitors. Cholesterol absorption inhibitors can block the absorption of cholesterol from the diet, sometimes in conjunction with statins.
  • Bempedoic acid. Bempedoic acid helps to stop an enzyme in the liver, ATP citrate lyase, from making cholesterol. This drug is often combined with statins for increased benefit for those with familial hypercholesterolemia, an inherited condition that can cause early heart disease.
  • PCSK9 inhibitors. Also used frequently with familial hypercholesterolemia, PCSK9 inhibitors, which are injected drugs, help the liver absorb and remove more LDL cholesterol from the blood.

Medications can also be used to treat contributing factors to cholesterol like triglycerides. These may be used in addition to some of the medications above.

“One misconception is that people can have poorly controlled cholesterol for years and then decide to take action. By then the plaque could already have built up,” says Dr. Eugenia Gianos, director of cardiovascular prevention for Northwell Health in New York.

The good news is that lifestyle changes are reasonably effective in helping you reduce cholesterol levels. They’re also fairly straightforward and can be done at any age and within most abilities.

  • Exercise if you can. Physical activity can help you lose weight and boost your HDL cholesterol. Aim for 30 to 60 minutes a day of moderate cardiovascular exercise, such as biking, jogging, swimming, and dancing, at least 5 times a week.
  • Eat more fiber. Try to add more fiber to your diet, such as replacing white bread and pasta with whole grains.
  • Eat healthy fats: Healthy fats include olive oil, avocado, and certain nuts. These are all fats that won’t raise your LDL levels.
  • Limit your saturated-fat intake. Reduce the amount of high-saturated fatty foods like cheese, whole milk, and high-fat red meats.
  • Limit red and processed meats, sodium and sugar-sweetened foods. A heart healthy diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, poultry, fish and nuts, while limiting processed meats, excess sodium, and added sugar.
  • If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking decreases HDL cholesterol. Quitting can help you better manage your cholesterol levels.
  • Limit your alcohol intake. The American Heart Association recommends drinking alcohol in moderation, which means, on average, no more than two drinks per day for men and no more than one drink per day for women. Drinking too much alcohol can raise levels of triglyceride fats in the bloodstream and lead to conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and atrial fibrillation.
  • Get to a healthy-for-you weight. Losing excess body weight can help lower your cholesterol levels.
  • Check your levels. You can see a doctor or use an at-home test kit to check your cholesterol levels. You can purchase a testing kit online from LetsGetChecked here.

There are few noticeable symptoms of high cholesterol. Emergency symptoms such as a stroke or heart attack may be the only indicator of damage from high cholesterol. This means that regular monitoring by a doctor is essential.

Most people should get their cholesterol checked with a blood test every 4 to 6 years. Your doctor may recommend more frequent screening if you live with any of the following:

  • a history of heart conditions
  • family history of high cholesterol
  • high blood pressure
  • if you smoke
  • have overweight or obesity

Read this article in Spanish.

By age, LDL, HDL, and More

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

  • Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
  • Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
  • Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Recommended total cholesterol levels are under 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) for most adults and under 170 mg/dL for children. Women typically need more HDL (good cholesterol) than men.

Good heart health is like a building block: It’s cumulative. This is particularly true when it comes to high cholesterol.

Cholesterol is a fatty substance your liver makes. It’s also found in certain foods. Your body needs some cholesterol to function properly. But having too much of the bad type of cholesterol — low-density lipoprotein (LDL) — puts you at risk for having a heart attack or stroke.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), having high cholesterol raises your risk for heart disease.

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “men,” “women,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

Your total cholesterol level is the overall amount of cholesterol found in your blood. It consists of:

  • low-density lipoproteins (LDLs)
  • high-density lipoproteins (HDLs)
  • triglycerides

LDL is also called “bad” cholesterol because it blocks your blood vessels and increases your risk for heart disease. HDL is considered “good” cholesterol because it helps protect you from heart disease. The higher your HDL, the better.

Total cholesterol also includes a triglyceride count. These are another type of fat that can build up in the body and are considered the “building blocks” of cholesterol.

High levels of triglycerides and low levels of HDL raise your risk for heart disease.

The American Heart Association recommends that all adults have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years, starting at age 20, which is when cholesterol levels can start to rise.

As we age, cholesterol levels tend to climb. Men are generally at a higher risk than women for higher cholesterol. However, a woman’s risk goes up after she enters menopause.

For those with high cholesterol and other cardiac risk factors, such as diabetes, more frequent testing is recommended.

Cholesterol chart for adults

According to the 2018 guidelines on the management of blood cholesterol published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), these are the acceptable, borderline, and high measurements for adults.

All values are in mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) and are based on fasting measurements.

Total cholesterolHDL cholesterolLDL cholesterolTriglycerides
GoodLess than 200 (but the lower the better)Ideal is 60 or higher; 40 or higher for men and 50 or higher for women is acceptableLess than 100; below 70 if coronary artery disease is presentLess than 149; ideal is
Borderline to moderately elevated200–239n/a130–159150–199
High240 or higher60 or higher160 or higher; 190 considered very high200 or higher; 500 considered very high
Lown/aless than 40 for men and less than 50 for womenn/an/a

Cholesterol levels in men vs.

women

Generally, guidelines are similar for men and women over the age of 20, though they differ when it comes to HDL cholesterol, as seen above. Women should aim for higher levels of HDL cholesterol.

Children who are physically active, eat a nutrient-dense diet, are not overweight, and do not have a family history of high cholesterol are at a lower risk for having high cholesterol.

Current guidelines recommend that all children have their cholesterol checked between ages 9 and 11 years, and then again between ages 17 and 21 years.

Children with more risk factors, such as having diabetes, obesity, or a family history of high cholesterol, should be checked between ages 2 and 8 years, and again between ages 12 and 16 years.

Cholesterol chart for children

According to the JACC, the following are the recommended cholesterol levels for children:

All values are in mg/dL:

Total cholesterolHDL cholesterolLDL cholesterolTriglycerides
Good170 or lessGreater than 45Less than 110Less than 75 in children 0–9; less than 90 in children 10–19
Borderline170–19940-45110–12975–99 in children 0–9; 90–129 in children 10–19
High200 or highern/a130 or higher100 or more in children 0–9; 130 or more in children 10–19
Lown/aLess than 40n/an/a

Your doctor may recommend a plan of treatment for high cholesterol that includes lifestyle modifications and potentially medication. This will vary based on factors like other medications you may be taking, your age, sex, and general health.

Here are some medications more commonly prescribed for high cholesterol:

  • Statins. Statins lower the LDL cholesterol levels by slowing the production of cholesterol by the liver.
  • Bile acid sequestrants. Bile acid sequestrants are substances used in digestion. These resins can reduce cholesterol levels in the blood by binding to bile acids and removing them, forcing the body to break down LDL cholesterol to create bile acids instead.
  • Cholesterol absorption inhibitors. Cholesterol absorption inhibitors can block the absorption of cholesterol from the diet, sometimes in conjunction with statins.
  • Bempedoic acid. Bempedoic acid helps to stop an enzyme in the liver, ATP citrate lyase, from making cholesterol. This drug is often combined with statins for increased benefit for those with familial hypercholesterolemia, an inherited condition that can cause early heart disease.
  • PCSK9 inhibitors. Also used frequently with familial hypercholesterolemia, PCSK9 inhibitors, which are injected drugs, help the liver absorb and remove more LDL cholesterol from the blood.

Medications can also be used to treat contributing factors to cholesterol like triglycerides. These may be used in addition to some of the medications above.

“One misconception is that people can have poorly controlled cholesterol for years and then decide to take action. By then the plaque could already have built up,” says Dr. Eugenia Gianos, director of cardiovascular prevention for Northwell Health in New York.

The good news is that lifestyle changes are reasonably effective in helping you reduce cholesterol levels. They’re also fairly straightforward and can be done at any age and within most abilities.

  • Exercise if you can. Physical activity can help you lose weight and boost your HDL cholesterol. Aim for 30 to 60 minutes a day of moderate cardiovascular exercise, such as biking, jogging, swimming, and dancing, at least 5 times a week.
  • Eat more fiber. Try to add more fiber to your diet, such as replacing white bread and pasta with whole grains.
  • Eat healthy fats: Healthy fats include olive oil, avocado, and certain nuts. These are all fats that won’t raise your LDL levels.
  • Limit your saturated-fat intake. Reduce the amount of high-saturated fatty foods like cheese, whole milk, and high-fat red meats.
  • Limit red and processed meats, sodium and sugar-sweetened foods. A heart healthy diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, poultry, fish and nuts, while limiting processed meats, excess sodium, and added sugar.
  • If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking decreases HDL cholesterol. Quitting can help you better manage your cholesterol levels.
  • Limit your alcohol intake. The American Heart Association recommends drinking alcohol in moderation, which means, on average, no more than two drinks per day for men and no more than one drink per day for women. Drinking too much alcohol can raise levels of triglyceride fats in the bloodstream and lead to conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and atrial fibrillation.
  • Get to a healthy-for-you weight. Losing excess body weight can help lower your cholesterol levels.
  • Check your levels. You can see a doctor or use an at-home test kit to check your cholesterol levels. You can purchase a testing kit online from LetsGetChecked here.

There are few noticeable symptoms of high cholesterol. Emergency symptoms such as a stroke or heart attack may be the only indicator of damage from high cholesterol. This means that regular monitoring by a doctor is essential.

Most people should get their cholesterol checked with a blood test every 4 to 6 years. Your doctor may recommend more frequent screening if you live with any of the following:

  • a history of heart conditions
  • family history of high cholesterol
  • high blood pressure
  • if you smoke
  • have overweight or obesity

Read this article in Spanish.

Calculation of the coefficient of atherogenicity – Clinic 1

Coefficient of atherogenicity – an indicator that reflects the degree of risk of developing diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

Atherogenic coefficient – the ratio of “bad” cholesterol to “good”, characterizing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Cholesterol (CH) is a fat-like substance vital for the body. It is involved in the formation of cell membranes of all organs and tissues of the body. Based on cholesterol, hormones are created, without which growth, development of the body and the implementation of the reproduction function are impossible. Bile acids are formed from it, due to which fats are absorbed in the intestines.

Cholesterol is insoluble in water, therefore, in order to move around the body, it is “packed” into a shell consisting of special proteins – apoproteins. The resulting complex (“cholesterol + apoprotein”) is called lipoprotein. Several types of lipoproteins circulate in the blood, differing in the proportions of their components:

  • very low density lipoproteins (VLDL),
  • low density lipoproteins (LDL),
  • high density lipoproteins (HDL).

LDL and VLDL are considered “bad” types of cholesterol, as they contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. HDL, on the other hand, is called “good” cholesterol because it removes excess amounts of low-density cholesterol from vessel walls.

In the development of atherosclerotic plaques in the vessels, not only the increase in the total amount of cholesterol in the blood, but also the ratio between “bad” and “good” cholesterol is important. This is what the coefficient of atherogenicity reflects. It is calculated using the following formula: CA = (total cholesterol – HDL) / HDL.

Thus, in order to determine CA, it is necessary to know the level of total cholesterol and HDL.

The atherogenic coefficient equal to 2-3 is considered optimal.

The atherogenic index is a guide value. For a more accurate assessment of the risk of developing atherosclerosis and diseases of the heart and blood vessels, it is better to use the exact values ​​​​of total cholesterol, LDL and HDL.

What is research used for?

The atherogenic index test is used to assess the risk of atherosclerosis and heart and vascular problems.

Changes in the levels of “bad” and “good” cholesterol and their ratio in itself, as a rule, do not manifest any symptoms, so their timely determination is very important in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

When is the test ordered?

Atherogenic coefficient is usually part of the lipid profile, as are total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL and triglycerides. A lipid profile may be part of a routine screening routine or more frequently if the person is on a low-fat diet and/or is taking lipid-lowering medications. In these cases, it is checked whether the patient reaches the target level of cholesterol values ​​and, accordingly, whether his risk of cardiovascular diseases is reduced.

In addition, a lipid profile is prescribed more often if there are risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases in the patient’s life:

  • smoking,
  • in men over 45 years of age, in women over 55,
  • high blood pressure (140/90 mmHg and above),
  • high cholesterol or cardiovascular disease in family members (heart attack or stroke in a male relative under 55 years of age or a woman under 65 years of age),
  • ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction or stroke,
  • diabetes,
  • overweight,
  • alcohol abuse,
  • ingestion of large amounts of food containing animal fats,
  • low physical activity.

If a child is diagnosed with high cholesterol or heart disease, it is recommended that the first lipid profile or total cholesterol test be done between the ages of 2 and 10 years.

Calculation of the coefficient of atherogenicity

Analysis of the atherogenic index in the medical center “Health”

Biomaterial: Blood serum

Deadline (in the laboratory): 1 w.d.

* The site indicates the maximum possible time for the study. It reflects the time of the study in the laboratory and does not include the time for the delivery of the biomaterial to the laboratory. The information provided is for reference only and is not a public offer. For up-to-date information, contact the Contractor’s medical center or call-center.

Lipids (fats). Substances necessary for a living organism. The main lipid that a person receives from food, and from which their own lipids are then formed, is cholesterol. It is part of cell membranes, maintains their strength. Steroid hormones are synthesized from it: hormones of the adrenal cortex that regulate water-salt and carbohydrate metabolism, sex hormones, bile acids are formed, which are involved in the absorption of fats in the intestine. In the skin under the action of sunlight, vitamin D is synthesized from cholesterol, which is necessary for the absorption of calcium.

Various complexes of lipids with proteins circulating in the blood are formed in the liver from cholesterol: high, low and very low density lipoproteins (HDL, LDL, VLDL), between which total cholesterol is divided. Low and very low density lipoproteins are deposited in plaques and contribute to the progression of atherosclerosis. High-density lipoproteins contribute to the “pulling” of cholesterol from plaques and play a protective role, stop the development of atherosclerosis. Therefore, to assess the risk of atherosclerosis and control, not only the total level of cholesterol, but also the ratio of its fractions is important. Based on these data is calculated.

Atherogenic index. Total blood cholesterol is an important, but still insufficient indicator for judging the violation of cholesterol metabolism, assessing the risk of early development of atherosclerosis, and judging the success of treatment. As part of total cholesterol, several fractions are distinguished, of which two are necessary for establishing the correct diagnosis and prognosis. For a reliable diagnosis of disorders of cholesterol metabolism, it is sufficient to determine total cholesterol (TC) and HDL (high density lipoproteins). Based on these data, the Atherogenic Index is calculated – the main indicator by which one can reliably judge the degree of lipid metabolism disorders and the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis. The value of the atherogenic index can be used to monitor the effectiveness of therapy and diet.

Indications for prescription

To diagnose pathologies of the cardiovascular system, in particular atherosclerosis, doctors prescribe a comprehensive examination. One of its components is the lipid profile. With this study, it seems possible to evaluate lipid metabolism in the human body. The study contains many indicators, one of them is the coefficient of atherogenicity (CA). If this indicator is increased in a person’s blood, a more detailed examination should be performed. Every person who has problems with fat metabolism should know what the atherogenic index is, as well as how to determine and decipher this figure. Indications for the appointment: diagnosis of atherosclerosis and monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment; control of lipid metabolism in overweight people; annual preventive examination in people over 40 years of age.

Interpretation of results/Information for specialists

The norm for a healthy person should not exceed 3-3.5. Values ​​above 3.5-4 indicate an excess of “bad” cholesterol and the risk of developing atherosclerosis. The atherogenic index below the norm (less than 3) has no clinical significance. Along with IA, you need to know other indicators. When calculating the coefficient of atherogenicity, deviations can directly vary both upward and downward. When the atherogenic index does not exceed normal values ​​or its level is below normal, the probability of occurrence of cardiovascular pathology tends to zero. At the level of atherogenic number exceeding 4, the probability of occurrence of ischemic changes in vital organs, thrombosis significantly increases. An atherogenic index of more than 5 indicates the presence of atherosclerotic changes in the vascular bed. In the case when an increase in the coefficient of atherogenicity is detected during the examination, measures must be taken immediately. The primary role for the normalization of the indicator is played by an anti-atherogenic diet. Allocate the main reasons that contribute to the increase in the coefficient: Poor nutrition. Diabetes mellitus with excess body weight or obesity. Bad addictions. Diseases of the liver and thyroid gland.