Normalne vrednosti holesterola

Customer question:

What are normal cholesterol levels? Anonymous customer's question

Pharmacist's answer:

Normal cholesterol levels may vary by age, gender, and other factors, but general guidelines for adults are as follows:

• Total Cholesterol: The average total cholesterol level in the blood is usually less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl).

• "Good" HDL cholesterol: High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are known as "good" cholesterol because they help remove excess cholesterol from the blood. Normal HDL cholesterol levels are usually greater than 40 mg/dl in men and greater than 50 mg/dl in women.

• "Bad" LDL cholesterol: Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are known as "bad" cholesterol because they can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. Normal levels of LDL cholesterol are usually less than 100 mg/dl.

• Triglycerides: An average triglyceride level is usually less than 150 mg/dL.

When assessing cholesterol levels, it is important to consider the entire lipid profile, including the HDL to LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels ratio. In addition, cholesterol targets may be different for individuals at higher risk for cardiovascular disease, such as those with diabetes or hypertension.

How high is too high cholesterol?

An average total cholesterol level is usually less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) of blood. Levels between 200 and 239 mg/dL are considered borderline high cholesterol, while 240 mg/dL or higher levels are considered high cholesterol.

LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoproteins): Normal LDL cholesterol levels are usually less than 100 mg/dl. Levels between 100 and 129 mg/dL are usually considered moderately elevated, while 130 mg/dL or more levels are considered too high. For people at higher risk of cardiovascular disease (such as those with diabetes or hypertension), targets may be even lower.

HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoproteins): High HDL cholesterol levels are desirable, as HDL lipoproteins play a protective role and help remove excess cholesterol from the blood. Normal HDL cholesterol levels are usually greater than 40 mg/dl in men and greater than 50 mg/dl in women.

An average triglyceride level is usually less than 150 mg/dL. Levels between 150 and 199 mg/dL are moderately elevated, while 200 mg/dL or more are excessively elevated.

Can we have too low cholesterol?

Yes, we can also have too-low cholesterol, although it is less common and less problematic than too-high cholesterol. Cholesterol is essential for many vital bodily functions, including forming cell membranes, producing hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, and forming bile acids necessary for digestion. Too little cholesterol can cause health problems, including an increased risk of certain diseases and disorders.

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