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Normal Cholesterol Levels by Age

by Alivia Nyhan
Published: Last Updated on

A simple blood test can determine if we have a problem with our cholesterol. All the fatty substances that our body needs are produced by itself. Therefore when these levels begin to increase, our diet and lifestyle are not entirely healthy. Saturated fats raise cholesterol in our blood, causing this fat to accumulate and adhere to the walls of the arteries. These can become clogged, thus reducing blood flow. If this build-up breaks down, it will form a clot that could block blood flow to the heart or brain. At FastlyHeal, we show you what the typical cholesterol values are.

Who should have a cholesterol test?

The cholesterol test will help us know if there is any risk of serious diseases have very high cholesterol levels. It is recommended that men have had at least a cholesterol test before 35 and women before 45. In the same way, if you have diabetes, strokes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, follow-up should be more exhaustive.

Normal values

To understand cholesterol values, we first have to know that there are several types and that each one has a matter that should be normal. First, we have low-density lipoprotein, which we will find in the medical examination as LDL and commonly called “bad” cholesterol. This should be between 70 and 130 mg/dL, but the ideal would be to keep it at 100 mg/dL.

In the case of high-density lipoprotein or HDL, also known as “good” cholesterol, its expected value is 60 mg / dL, contrary to LDL. The higher the number, the better. Having that value of less than 40 mg / dL can put your health at risk.

Another data that we will find in the analysis is the total cholesterol. In this case, the lower numbers will be a good indicator. 200 mg / dL is the superior value. If your test shows between 200 and 239 mg / dL, it’s time to start preventive measures to lower it. If the analytical values ​​are 240 and 300 mg / dL, your body is in danger and needs a change of habits. We also have VLDL cholesterol or very low-density lipoprotein, which is the one that contains the highest amount of triglycerides and is another that is in the category of “bad,” its normal values ​​are between 2 and 30 mg / dL.

Finally, we find triglycerides. Their average value will be between 10 and 150 mg / dL. High triglycerides can cause inflammation in the pancreas so we will avoid values ​​between 200 and 499 mg / dL. It should be noted that these levels may vary depending on the laboratory.

How often should I get my cholesterol tested?

If your values ​​are average, it is okay to repeat the exam every five years. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, your doctor will indicate the appropriate frequency. If you have already been diagnosed with high cholesterol and find yourself in treatment, it is essential to do a yearly exam.

How do I get a cholesterol test?

Generally, a blood test, having fasted for 8 or 12 hours, can give us the necessary data to know if we have high cholesterol. However, a test called lipid profile will be more detailed. Your doctor will tell you which one should be performed.

If you want to know more about cholesterol, we invite you to read our article high cholesterol: causes and treatment.

This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any condition or discomfort.

If you want to read more articles similar to Normal Cholesterol Values, we recommend that you enter our Blood, Heart, and Circulation category.

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