Cholesterol levels - Second Spring Hormone Clinic

What is cholesterol levels?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all cells of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest foods. There are two types:

• LDL cholesterol - the "bad" cholesterol that can build up in your arteries
• HDL cholesterol - the "good" cholesterol that helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries

Healthy and unhealthy cholesterol levels

• Healthy total cholesterol level: Under 200 mg/dL
• Borderline high total cholesterol: 200-239 mg/dL
• High total cholesterol: 240 mg/dL and above

For LDL cholesterol:

• Optimal level: Under 100 mg/dL
• Near optimal: 100-129 mg/dL
• Borderline high: 130-159 mg/dL
• High: 160-189 mg/dL
• Very high: 190 mg/dL and above

For HDL cholesterol:

• A good level protects against heart disease: 60 mg/dL and above
• An HDL less than 40 mg/dL is a major risk factor for heart disease

Ways to improve your cholesterol

Here are some tips to help improve your cholesterol levels:

• Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Choose lean protein sources like fish, beans, and low-fat dairy
• Limit saturated and trans fats found in meat and processed food
• Exercise for 30 minutes most days of the week
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Don't smoke cigarettes

"Getting my cholesterol under control was life changing. I have more energy, I sleep better, and my doctor says my heart disease risk has gone way down."

Need help improving your cholesterol?

The medical providers at Second Spring Hormone Clinic specialize in customized care plans to help patients optimize cholesterol and other health markers. Contact us today to schedule your evaluation. Our holistic approaches combine lifestyle changes, high quality supplements, and bioidentical hormones when needed.

We accept most major insurance plans.