These are some things you can do to lower your cholesterol levels: Men ages 45 to 65 and women ages 55 to 65 should have it every 1 to 2 yearsĪ variety of things can affect cholesterol levels.Younger adults should have the test every 5 years.Some children may have this test starting at age 2 if there is a family history of high blood cholesterol, heart attack, or stroke.Children should have the test again every 5 years.The first test should be between ages 9 to 11.When and how often you should get a cholesterol test depends on your age, risk factors, and family history. How often should I get a cholesterol test? You might need treatment if you have triglyceride levels that are borderline high (150-199 mg/dL) or high (200 mg/dL or more). A normal triglyceride level is below 150 mg/dL. Triglycerides are not a type of cholesterol, but they are part of a lipoprotein panel (the test that measures cholesterol levels). Women age 20 or older: Type of Cholesterol Here are the healthy levels of cholesterol, based on your age and gender:Īnyone age 19 or younger: Type of Cholesterol Triglycerides - another form of fat in your blood that can raise your risk for heart disease, especially in womenĬholesterol numbers are measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).Your non-HDL includes LDL and other types of cholesterol such as VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein). Non-HDL - this number is your total cholesterol minus your HDL.HDL (good) cholesterol - HDL helps remove cholesterol from your arteries.LDL (bad) cholesterol - the main source of cholesterol buildup and blockage in the arteries.

It includes both low-density lipoprotein ( LDL) cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein ( HDL) cholesterol. Total cholesterol - a measure of the total amount of cholesterol in your blood.Before the test, you'll need to fast (not eat or drink anything but water) for 9 to 12 hours. How do you measure cholesterol levels?Ī blood test called a lipoprotein panel can measure your cholesterol levels. But if you have too much cholesterol in your blood, you have a higher risk of coronary artery disease. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. Your liver makes cholesterol, and it is also in some foods, such as meat and dairy products. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that's found in all the cells in your body.

Direct ldl cholesterol range