What is a normal fasting cholesterol?
The total cholesterol should be kept under 200. However, as important are the values of the LDL or unhealthy cholesterol, under 130, and HDL or healthy cholesterol, over 45. At a minimum, these values should be tested yearly, and in the case of active heart disease, even more often. When cholesterol levels are high in a case of heart disease, there is an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. In most cases, elevations of cholesterol are due to a lifestyle and dietary factors. In some cases, low thyroid function, and/or genetic factors may also cause elevations in cholesterol. Recently, a number of cholesterol lowering drugs known as “statins” have been promoted in the media. However, many of them are toxic to the liver. It is important to note that the liver is a vital organ; i.e. one cannot live without the liver. It is therefore extremely important to make informed and educated choices when deciding on a treatment plan for the treatment of lowering cholesterol with drugs. What
