A normal total cholesterol level is less than 200 mg/dL (5.17 mmol/L). This level is considered ideal for maintaining good cardiovascular health.
Understanding Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your blood. While your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, too much of it can lead to health problems, particularly heart disease. Total cholesterol is just one aspect of a lipid panel, which also includes HDL ("good") cholesterol, LDL ("bad") cholesterol, and triglycerides.
Here’s a breakdown of total cholesterol levels according to the reference:
| Cholesterol Level | Category |
|---|---|
| Less than 200 mg/dL (5.17 mmol/L) | Normal |
| 200 to 239 mg/dL (5.17 to 6.18 mmol/L) | Borderline High |
| 240 mg/dL (6.21 mmol/L) or greater | High |
Key Points to Remember:
- Unit Conversion: Total cholesterol levels are measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L). The provided reference gives both measures.
- Individual Needs: Your healthcare provider will consider other factors besides total cholesterol, including your age, family history, and other risk factors, when evaluating your heart health.
- Regular Testing: It's important to have your cholesterol checked regularly, particularly if you have risk factors for heart disease. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate testing frequency for you.
- Lifestyle Changes: If your cholesterol is high, lifestyle changes can be very effective.
- Eat a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Don't smoke.
- Medication: If lifestyle changes aren't enough, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower your cholesterol.
The reference information states that normal total cholesterol is less than 200 mg/dL (5.17 mmol/L), borderline high is 200 to 239 mg/dL (5.17 to 6.18 mmol/L), and high is 240 mg/dL (6.21 mmol/L) or greater. These classifications help individuals and their healthcare providers manage cholesterol levels effectively.
