Total Cholesterol

What is total cholesterol?

Your total cholesterol includes your low-density lipoprotein or LDL (“bad”), high-density lipoprotein or HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and a portion of your triglycerides (a type of blood fat).

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your body. Your body needs it to build cells and make vitamins and other hormones. But too much blood cholesterol can pose a problem.

Cholesterol comes from two sources. First, your liver makes all the cholesterol you need. The remainder of the cholesterol in your body comes from animal foods. For example, meat, poultry, and dairy products contain dietary cholesterol.

Lipoproteins made of protein and fat carry cholesterol in your blood. Lifestyle habits, such as unhealthy eating patterns can cause unhealthy cholesterol levels. Genetics also influence cholesterol levels.

What is my target total cholesterol?

Total cholesterol under 200 mg/dl is considered normal, but your overall risk for cardiovascular disease and your levels of LDL and HDL cholesterol are more important.

Source:

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Additional information:

5 ways to lower your cholesterol with a heart-healthy diet

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