Reading Your Lab Results

Reading your own blood work results can sometimes be a challenge. You need to know what you are looking for and what the normal ranges are. One of the first readings you might see is your “Total Cholesterol.” A desirable level is a total level less than 199 mg/dL. Total cholesterol levels from 200 mg/dL to 239 mg/dL are considered to be borderline levels on their way to high cholesterol. Total cholesterol levels over 240 mg/dL are considered to be high cholesterol levels and can increase risk for heart disease.

It is important, however, to break down your cholesterol levels into LDL and HDL ratios as well. Since this site is all about raising HDL levels, we will break it down.

A desirable range for HDL cholesterol levels is anywhere from 40-60mg/dL.   Any level above 60 mg/dL is considered to be a high HDL level and is very healthy.   Any HDL level below 40 mg/dL is considered to be undesirable.   Low HDL cholesterol levels can contribute to heart disease. An optimal level for LDL cholesterol would be any level less than 100mg/dL.

The Total Cholesterol level to HDL cholesterol level is a number that can help lower the risk of atherosclerosis. You can determine your Total Chol/HDL by dividing your total cholesterol level by your HDL level. The higher the ratio, the higher the risk of heart attack.