A normal total cholesterol level for adults is less than 200 mg/dL.
Understanding Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood that your body needs to build healthy cells. However, too much cholesterol can lead to health problems. It's essential to understand what constitutes a healthy cholesterol range to maintain overall well-being.
Cholesterol Levels in Adults:
| Category | Total Cholesterol (mg/dL) |
|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 200 |
| Borderline High | 200 to 239 |
| High | 240 or above |
Key Considerations:
- Total Cholesterol: This measurement includes all the cholesterol in your blood.
- mg/dL: This stands for milligrams per deciliter, the unit used to measure cholesterol levels.
- Regular Checkups: It's important to have your cholesterol levels checked regularly by a healthcare provider.
Why Monitor Cholesterol?
High cholesterol often doesn't have any noticeable symptoms, making regular check-ups crucial. Over time, high cholesterol can contribute to:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Other cardiovascular problems
What Can You Do?
Here are a few lifestyle changes to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels:
- Eat a heart-healthy diet: This includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your cholesterol levels.
- Quit smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and contributes to high cholesterol.
By being proactive and making informed choices, you can maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
