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Cholesterol

Nearly 2 in 5 Americans have high cholesterol, which clogs blood vessels and puts you at higher risk for heart disease and stroke. Many things can contribute to high cholesterol like family history, unhealthy diet, weight gain and lack of exercise. Cholesterol is the fatty substance in your blood that latches on to particles called lipoproteins.

Types

Providers test your blood for three main types:

High-density lipoprotein — This is the “good” kind. HDL takes cholesterol out of your body.
Low-density lipoprotein — This is the “bad” kind. LDL builds up and blocks the arteries.
Triglycerides — This is the fat in your blood your body uses for energy. A high level increases your risk of heart disease or stroke.

Your total cholesterol is a blend of the three numbers. A higher total means you have a greater risk for heart disease.

Your Numbers

You should aim for these levels:

HDL: 40 mg/dL or higher
LDL: less than 130 mg/dl
Triglycerides: less than 150 mg/dl
Total cholesterol: less than 200 mg/dl

Talk to you provider about what your levels should be.

Keep Chloesterol in Check

How to manage your cholesterol:

If you’re overweight, shed excess pounds.
Exercise at least 30 minutes on most days of the week.
Avoid saturated fat in meats, whole milk dairy products and many prepared foods.
Limit or avoid drinking alcohol.
Quit smoking.

Keep Up with Your Preventive Care

Make sure to get your preventive screening and check your cholesterol levels. If you have high cholesterol, your provider may recommend medicine and lifestyle changes to improve your numbers.

Sources: About Cholesterol, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024, High Cholesterol Facts, CDC, 2024, Preventing High Cholesterol, CDC, 2024, Cholesterol test, Mayo Clinic, 2025