About all

Ldl 203: Total Cholesterol: 203 mg/dL

by alexxlab

Total Cholesterol: 203 mg/dL

Elle Penner, MPH, RD

5 mins

What does a total cholesterol level of 203 mean? Are there any symptoms associated with this level?

A total cholesterol level of 203 mg/dL is considered elevated. Although cholesterol serves several important functions in the body, elevated cholesterol may put you at greater risk for heart disease. 

Your total cholesterol is calculated by adding your LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and 20% of triglyceride levels. 

  • LDL is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it accumulates in your blood vessels and increases your risk for heart disease. Ideally, LDL levels should be less than 100 mg/dL, but lower is better. 

  • HDL is considered “good” cholesterol because it protects against heart disease by scavenging cholesterol and returning it to the liver for excretion. The ideal HDL level is >60 mg/dL, though >40 mg/dL for men and >50 mg/dL for women are still considered good.

  • Triglycerides are another type of fat that can build up in the bloodstream and increase your risk of heart disease. Ideally, triglycerides should be <150 mg/dL.  

Elevated cholesterol doesn’t have symptoms, which is why it’s important to know your levels. Lowering your total cholesterol will reduce your risk of developing heart disease and other health issues. If you already have heart disease, lowering your cholesterol can reduce your odds of serious complications, like a heart attack or stroke. 

Factors that could contribute to a total cholesterol level of 203: 

  • Diet: Diets that are high in saturated fats, trans fats, added sugar, and low in fiber can cause blood cholesterol to rise.

  • Weight. Being overweight also tends to increase cholesterol levels. 

  • Physical Activity. Being active can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels.  

  • Smoking: Smoking lowers your HDL (good) cholesterol, which can contribute to a higher level of bad cholesterol.

  • Medications: Some medications can increase cholesterol levels including corticosteroids, beta-blockers, thiazide diuretics, retinoids, growth hormones, and antivirals.

  • Diseases: Certain diseases like chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS can elevate total cholesterol.

  • Age and Sex: Premenopausal women tend to have lower total cholesterol levels than men of the same age. However, cholesterol levels tend to increase with age in both women and men. After the age of menopause, women’s LDL (bad) cholesterol levels tend to rise.

  • Genetics (heredity): High blood cholesterol can run in families. This is because your genes partly determine how much cholesterol your body makes. 

  • Race: Certain races may have an increased risk of high blood cholesterol. For example, Blacks/African Americans typically have higher HDL and LDL cholesterol levels than Caucasians.

  • Elevated HDL (good) cholesterol: A HDL level above 70 mg/dL may cause your total cholesterol to be elevated. High HDL is considered protective against heart disease and is generally not a concern if your LDL and triglycerides levels are normal.

What to do if your total cholesterol level is 203?

Making changes to your diet and adopting healthy habits can help lower your total cholesterol level. To lower your cholesterol:

  • Eat fiber-rich foods such as veggies, fruit, whole grains, and legumes, daily for a total of 30-40g fiber/ day. 

  • Limit sources of refined carbs and added sugars such as soda, chips, candy, baked goods, sweetened yogurt, and ice cream. 

  • Avoid trans fats like partially hydrogenated oils and reduce your saturated fat intake to < 10% total calories. 

  • Eat small, fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and trout, at least twice a week.  

  • Be active every day: Aim for 30-60 minutes of physical activity 5x/week.

  • Incorporate plant sterols and stanols daily (2g) in the form of food or a supplement. 

  • Lose weight if you are overweight or obese.

  • Quit smoking.

  • If you have diabetes, achieve and maintain good blood sugar control (HbA1c).

Medications and supplements used to improve total cholesterol results

If diet and lifestyle changes are not enough to lower your cholesterol, some medications and supplements can be helpful to get them into a safer range. Some common ones include: 

Medications

Medications are typically prescribed if diet and lifestyle changes do not lower total cholesterol levels enough on their own. Some common cholesterol medications include:

  • Statins: Statins (including atorvastatin, simvastatin, and rosuvastatin) reduce cholesterol production in your liver. Because they typically need to be taken for life, statins are only prescribed if diet and lifestyle changes aren’t enough [3].

  • Ezetimibe can be helpful for those with familial hypercholesterolemia and who have side effects with statins. 

  • Bile acid sequestrants: These medications block cholesterol-rich bile acid from being absorbed into the bloodstream and can be prescribed in place of or in addition to a statin. 

  • PCSK9 inhibitors: This medicine is injected under your skin every 2 or 4 weeks and may be prescribed alongside a statin if you are at high risk of heart attack or stroke, or have familial hypercholesterolemia.

  • Lomitapide: Typically prescribed if you have familial hypercholesterolemia and requires liver enzyme monitoring as it can cause liver damage. Lomitapide is commonly also taken with vitamin E.

Supplements

  • Plant sterols and stanols: Found in plant cell membranes, plant sterols and stanols (also called phytosterols) are similar in structure to cholesterol in the body and block dietary cholesterol from being absorbed. Phytosterols can be found in small quantities in vegetable oils, nuts, legumes, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables; however, the average daily intake (500 mg) is typically not enough to lower cholesterol. Studies show consuming 2000 mg (2g) of plant sterol and stanols daily from diet and supplements is effective for lowering total cholesterol [4]. Plant sterol and stanol supplements taken before or with meals can help lower total cholesterol in parallel with other recommended diet and lifestyle changes [4]. 

  • Omega-3 (EPA & DHA): Omega-3 fatty acids (specifically EPA & DHA) can significantly reduce blood triglyceride levels [7]. For cholesterol-lowering benefits, aim to consume 2,400-3,000 mg of omega-3 fats per day from your diet (salmon, mackerel, and trout are all good sources) and a quality fish oil supplement. 

  • Beta-glucan: Beta-glucan is a form of soluble fiber that has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels. It’s found naturally in whole grains like barley, oats, rye, and wheat, mushrooms, and seaweed and is also available as a nutritional supplement. For cholesterol-lowering benefits, consume 3-7 g/day from your diet and a supplement.

  • Psyllium: Another type of soluble fiber made from the husk of psyllium seeds, psyllium is good for digestive health and regularity and can also help lower cholesterol. Psyllium supplements are sold in powder form and can help reduce lipid levels when taken daily at a dose of 8-12 g/day. 

  • Alpha-lipoic acid: A potent antioxidant made in the body, alpha-lipoic acid is also found in foods including carrots, beets, spinach, broccoli, potatoes, and red meat. Research indicates that 600 mg/day of alpha-lipoic acid from your diet and a supplement may help lower total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol [8]. 

  • Turmeric: A spice commonly used to flavor and color curry dishes, turmeric may be helpful in lowering pro-inflammatory markers, blood cholesterol, and triglycerides [9]. More research needs to be done to determine optimal form and dosage but supplementing with 500 mg/day appears to be safe and potentially beneficial for lowering cholesterol.

  • Bergamot extract: Bergamot is a citrus fruit that has long been used for medicinal purposes. Taking bergamot extract (made from the juice of the fruit) seems to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in adults with high cholesterol [10,11]. One study suggests taking bergamot extract daily for a month may be as effective as taking a low dose of the cholesterol-lowering drug called rosuvastatin (Crestor) [11]. A recent research review indicates that 1000 mg/day may be most effective for lowering cholesterol. 

  • Green tea extract: Made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, green tea extract is a natural supplement that has been shown to help lower LDL (bad) and total cholesterol [12]. A daily dose of 400 mg may help lower your cholesterol but check with your doctor first as green tea extract can interact with certain medications, including beta-blockers and blood thinners. In addition, green tea extract may also have a stimulant effect.

High Cholesterol: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Related Topics

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance your liver makes to protect nerves and to make cell tissue and certain hormones. Your body also gets cholesterol from the food you eat. This includes eggs, meats, and dairy. There is “good” (HDL) cholesterol and “bad” (LDL) cholesterol. Too much bad cholesterol (LDL) can be bad for your health.

What is the difference between “good” cholesterol and “bad” cholesterol?

Good cholesterol is known as high-density lipoprotein (HDL). It removes cholesterol from the bloodstream. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the “bad” cholesterol.

If your total cholesterol level is high because of a high LDL level, you may be at higher risk of heart disease or stroke. But, if your total cholesterol level is high only because of a high HDL level, you’re probably not at higher risk.

Triglycerides are another type of fat in your blood. When you eat more calories than your body can use, it turns the extra calories into triglycerides.

Changing your lifestyle (diet and exercise) can improve your cholesterol levels, lower LDL and triglycerides, and raise HDL.

Your ideal cholesterol level will depend on your risk for heart disease.

  • Total cholesterol level – less than 200 is best, but it depends on your HDL and LDL levels.
  • LDL cholesterol levels – less than 130 is best, but this depends on your risk for heart disease.
  • HDL cholesterol levels – 60 or higher reduces your risk for heart disease.
  • Triglycerides – less than 150 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) is best.

Symptoms of high cholesterol

Often, there are no specific symptoms of high cholesterol. You could have high cholesterol and not know it.

If you have high cholesterol, your body may store the extra cholesterol in your arteries. These are blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to the rest of your body. A buildup of cholesterol in your arteries is known as plaque. Over time, plaque can become hard and make your arteries narrow. Large deposits of plaque can completely block an artery. Cholesterol plaques can also break apart, leading to formation of a blood clot that blocks the flow of blood.

A blocked artery to the heart can cause a heart attack. A blocked artery to your brain can cause a stroke.

Many people don’t discover that they have high cholesterol until they suffer one of these life-threatening events. Some people find out through routine check-ups that include blood tests.

What causes high cholesterol?

Your liver produces cholesterol, but you also get cholesterol from food. Eating too many foods that are high in fat can increase your cholesterol level.

Being overweight and inactive also causes high cholesterol. If you are overweight, you most likely have a higher level of triglycerides. If you never exercise and aren’t active in general, it can lower your HDL (good cholesterol).

Your family history also affects your cholesterol level. Research has shown that high cholesterol tends to run in families. If you have an immediate family member who has it, you could have it, too.

Smoking also causes high cholesterol. It lowers your HDL (good cholesterol).

How is high cholesterol diagnosed?

You can’t tell if you have high cholesterol without having it checked. A simple blood test will reveal your cholesterol level.

Men 35 years of age and older and women 45 years of age and older should have their cholesterol checked. Men and women 20 years of age and older who have risk factors for heart disease should have their cholesterol checked. Teens may need to be checked if they are taking certain medicines or have a strong family history of high cholesterol. Ask your doctor how often you should have your cholesterol checked.

Risk factors for heart disease include:

  • Cigarette smoking
  • High blood pressure
  • Older age
  • Having an immediate family member (parent or sibling) who has had heart disease
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Inactivity

Can high cholesterol be prevented or avoided?

Making healthy food choices and exercising are two ways to reduce your risk of developing high cholesterol.

Eat fewer foods with saturated fats (such as red meat and most dairy products). Choose healthier fats. This includes lean meats, avocados, nuts, and low-fat dairy items. Avoid foods that contain trans fat (such as fried and packaged foods). Look for foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These foods include salmon, herring, walnuts, and almonds. Some egg brands contain omega-3.

Exercise can be simple. Go for a walk. Take a yoga class. Ride your bike to work. You could even participate in a team sport. Aim to get 30 minutes of activity every day.

High cholesterol treatment

If you have high cholesterol, you may need to make some lifestyle changes. If you smoke, quit. Exercise regularly. If you’re overweight, losing just five to 10 pounds can improve your cholesterol levels and your risk for heart disease. Make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish.

Depending on your risk factors, your doctor may prescribe medicine and lifestyle changes.

Living with high cholesterol

If you have high cholesterol, you are twice as likely to develop heart disease. That is why it is important to have your cholesterol levels checked, especially if you have a family history of heart disease. Reducing your LDL “bad cholesterol” through good diet, exercise, and medicine can make a positive impact on your overall health.

Questions to ask your doctor

  • Am I at risk for heart disease?
  • How often should I get my cholesterol tested?
  • What are my cholesterol levels? Are they high?
  • What lifestyle changes do I need to make to help improve my cholesterol levels and heart health?
  • Do I need cholesterol medicine?
  • What are the side effects of the medicine?

Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Cholesterol

National Institutes of Health, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: Cholesterol

 

Tires and wheels for Mercedes C-Class (W203, CL203, S203), wheel size for Mercedes C-Class

Selection of tires and wheels for Mercedes C-Class

  • 2000
  • 2001
  • 2002
  • 2003
  • 2004
  • 2005
  • 2006
  • 2007

Other Mercedes models

Mercedes 190, Mercedes A-Class, Mercedes A-Class (W168), Mercedes A-Class (W169), Mercedes A-Class (W176), Mercedes A-Class AMG, Mercedes AMG GT, Mercedes AMG GT-4, Mercedes Atego, Mercedes B-Class, Mercedes B-Class (W245), Mercedes B-Class (W246), Mercedes C-Class, Mercedes C-Class (W202, S202), Mercedes C-Class (W203, CL203, S203), Mercedes C-Class (W204, S204), Mercedes C-Class (W205), Mercedes C-Class AMG, Mercedes Citan, Mercedes CL-Class, Mercedes CL-Class (C215), Mercedes CL-Class ( C216), Mercedes CL-Class AMG, Mercedes CLA-Class, Mercedes CLA-Class (C117), Mercedes CLA-Class AMG, Mercedes CLC-Class, Mercedes CLK-Class, Mercedes CLK-Class (C208, A208), Mercedes CLK -Class (C209, A209), Mercedes CLK-Class AMG, Mercedes CLS-Class, Mercedes CLS-Class (C218, X218), Mercedes CLS-Class (C219), Mercedes CLS-Class AMG, Mercedes E-Class, Mercedes E-Class (W210 , S210), Mercedes E-Class (W211, S211), Mercedes E-Class (W212, S212), Mercedes E-Class (W213, C207), Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain, Mercedes E-Class AMG, Mercedes E -Class Cabriolet, Mercedes E-Class Coupe, Mercedes EQA, Mercedes EQB, Mercedes EQC, Mercedes EQE, Mercedes EQE AMG, Mercedes EQS, Mercedes EQS AMG, Mercedes EQV, Mercedes G-Class, Mercedes G-Class (W463), Mercedes G-Class AMG, Mercedes GL-Class, Mercedes GL-Class (X164), Mercedes GL-Class (X166), Mercedes GL-Class AMG, Mercedes GLA-Class, Mercedes GLA-Class, Mercedes GLA-Class (X156), Mercedes GLA-Class AMG, Mercedes GLB-Class, Mercedes GLB-Class AMG, Mercedes GLC-Class, Mercedes GLC-Class, Mercedes GLC-Class AMG, Mercedes GLC-Class Coupe, Mercedes GLC-Class Coupe AMG, Mercedes GLC-Class (X253), Mercedes GLE AMG, Mercedes GLE Coupe(C292), Mercedes GLE-Class, Mercedes GLE-Class AMG, Mercedes GLE-Class Coupe, Mercedes GLE-Class Coupe AMG, Mercedes GLE-Class(W166), Mercedes GLK-Class, Mercedes GLK-Class (X204), Mercedes GLS -Class, Mercedes GLS-Class AMG, Mercedes M-Class, Mercedes M-Class (W163), Mercedes M-Class (W164), Mercedes M-Class (W166), Mercedes M-Class AMG, Mercedes Marco Polo, Mercedes Metris , Mercedes R-Class, Mercedes R-Class (W251), Mercedes R-Class AMG, Mercedes S-Class, Mercedes S-Class (W140, C140), Mercedes S-Class (W220), Mercedes S-Class (W221) , Mercedes S-Class (W222), Mercedes S-Class AMG, Mercedes S-Class Cabrio, Mercedes S-Class Cabrio AMG, Mercedes S-Class Coupe, Mercedes S-Class Coupe AMG, Mercedes SL-Class, Mercedes SL-Class (R230), Mercedes SL-Class (R231), Mercedes SL-Class AMG, Mercedes SLC-Class, Mercedes SLC-Class AMG, Mercedes SLK-Class, Mercedes SLK-Class (R170), Mercedes SLK-Class (R171), Mercedes SLK-Class (R172), Mercedes SLK-Class AMG, Mercedes SLR-Class, Mercedes SLR-Class (R199), Mercedes SLS AMG (A197, C197), Mercedes SLS-Class AMG, Mercedes Sprinter, Mercedes T-Class, Mercedes T1, Mercedes T2, Mercedes V-Class, Mercedes V-Class (W447), Mercedes Vaneo, Mercedes Vaneo (W414), Mercedes Viano, Mercedes Viano (W639), Mercedes Vito, Mercedes Vito (W638), Mercedes W123, Mercedes W124, Mercedes X-Class,

Wheel parameters for Mercedes C-Class

  • PCD 5×112 with diameter from 15 to 15, width from 7 to 7 and profile from ET38 to ET38 like Audi A4

  • Scud Sakura

  • iFree S. U.

  • iFree Nirvana

  • X’trike X-111

  • iFree Copernicus

Tire parameters

  • Tire dimensions from to , width from to and profile from to .
  • Minimum tire size: 195/65 R15, maximum: 265/30 R19

Selection of tires and wheels for Mercedes C-Class (W203, CL203, S203)

Using the automatic selection of tires and wheels for the car Mercedes C-Class (W203, CL203, S203) , you can avoid many problems associated with their compatibility and compliance with the recommendations of car manufacturers. After all, these components have a huge impact on a number of vehicle performance, from handling to dynamic qualities. In addition, tires and rims in a modern car are one of the elements of active safety. That is why their choice should be approached as responsibly as possible, i.e. with knowledge of a number of parameters of these components.

Unfortunately, only a small part of car owners have such technical nuances. Regardless of this, the automatic selection system will be extremely useful, that is, it will minimize the likelihood of making the wrong decision when choosing certain tires and rims. And it is distinguished by its extreme diversity, due to the presence in the Mosavtoshina online store of a wide range of this type of product.

Spare parts list for 203 P, 203 V – Server-Auto

  • Search by article