What is a cholesterol reading?
A substance called cholesterol exists in the body’s bloodstream where it produces cell membranes and some hormones and helps regulate bodily functions. The body requires some cholesterol, but excess levels can lead to coronary heart disease and stroke.Complete fasting lipoprotein profileWhen a doctor orders cholesterol testing, the results come in the form of a complete fasting lipoprotein profile. The profile includes the levels of total blood cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides.Total blood cholesterol levelAn optimal total blood cholesterol level falls below 200 milligrams per deciliter of blood. A level from 200 to 239 milligrams per deciliter requires an evaluation of LDL and HDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels to determine overall health. Levels over 240 milligrams per deciliter puts you at high risk of coronary heart disease.HDL cholesterolHDL, or “good,” cholesterol levels below 40 milligrams per deciliter in men and 50 milligrams per deciliter in
