Normal Cholesterol Range

Cholesterol is an essential substance required for formation of cell membranes in the body. It plays a major role in production of hormones, vitamins and also, in insulating the nerve fibers. Nevertheless, in spite of these many functions, presence of high cholesterol in the blood (in medical terms known as hypercholesterolemia) increases the risk for developing heart and cardiovascular diseases. Considering this, maintaining a normal cholesterol range is of utmost important for all of us.

Types of Cholesterol

When we say cholesterol levels in the body, it is measured by taking a blood sample from the individual. This is because, cholesterol present in the body is distributed to different parts via the circulatory system. Thus, a blood test is performed to test cholesterol levels in the body. The prime sources of blood cholesterol are dietary intake and production by liver.

Cholesterol, being a water-repelling component, is circulated in the bloodstream with the help of lipoproteins. Depending upon the chemical nature of lipoproteins, there are two types of cholesterol - LDL (low density lipoproteins) and HDL (high density lipoproteins). The former is responsible for deposition of cholesterol in the arterial walls (resulting in narrowing of the arteries), whereas the latter type circulates the unused cholesterol from the body parts to the liver. In brief, low levels of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and high levels of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) are desirable.

All About Normal Cholesterol Range

The blood test report represents cholesterol levels in terms of milligram per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood. There will be three numbers - total cholesterol reading, HDL and LDL. As with any vital sign of the body, there are prescribed normal cholesterol levels, which are necessary for normal functioning of the metabolic processes. When maintained under this range, the individual is at a relatively low risk of manifesting coronary heart disease. So, what is normal cholesterol range for women? Or is it the same for men too? Mentioned below are the cholesterol numbers and what they mean for your reference:

Healthy Cholesterol Range
Total Cholesterol: less than 200 mg/dL
HDL Cholesterol: 60 mg/dL and above
LDL Cholesterol: less than 100 mg/dL optimal
LDL Cholesterol: 100 - 129 mg/dL near optimal

Borderline Cholesterol Range
Total Cholesterol: 200 - 239 mg/dL
HDL Cholesterol: 40 - 50 mg/dL for men and 50 - 60 mg/dL for women
LDL Cholesterol: 130 - 159 mg/dL

High Risk Cholesterol Range
Total Cholesterol: 240 mg/dL and higher
HDL Cholesterol: below 40 mg/dL in men and 50 mg/dL in women
LDL Cholesterol: 160 - 189 mg/dL high
LDL Cholesterol: 190 mg/dL or above very high

For quick referencing, you can rely on normal cholesterol range chart put up in hospitals and private clinics. The risk of high cholesterol is determined by taking into account the patient's age, sex, family history, weight, blood pressure and lifestyle habits. Some of the noticeable symptoms of high cholesterol are fatty deposits under skin, yellow coloration around the eyelids, fatty nodules in tendons and cardiovascular conditions.

After being diagnosed with high cholesterol, the physician will advice the patient to follow a low cholesterol diet with less fats, perform physical activities and if necessary, make lifestyle changes. With the increasing number of people with high cholesterol, it is high time that we understand effectual tips on reducing cholesterol and apply them as much as possible. Only then can we maintain the normal cholesterol range and lead a healthy life, free of hypercholesterolemia symptoms.