Normal HDL and LDL Levels

Being aware about the normal HDL and LDL levels is one information, which comes in handy in order to prevent heart attacks and strokes. The HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is known as the 'good cholesterol', as it is required by the body to remove cholesterol that can block arteries and blood flow and thus, it acts as a barrier against heart attacks. The LDL (low-density lipoprotein), is known to be the 'bad cholesterol' in the body. A rapid growth of this type in the blood, clogs the inner walls of the arteries. It combines with other substances and forms plaque, which narrow the arteries and make them less flexible. This process causes the blood vessels to get impregnated with calcium salts and develops the risk of heart diseases and strokes. So as described above, it is obvious, that the HDL levels of cholesterol should be high and that of the LDL should be low. It is also important to know about triglycerides; a form of fat made in the body. A high measure of this fat in the body indicates a high total cholesterol level; i.e., a high LDL level and low HDL level.

Normal Levels of HDL, LDL and Triglycerides In the Body

HDL Levels for Men
Anything less than 40 mg/dL is considered to be a risk of heart disease. The normal range of HDL in average men should be from 40 to 50 mg/dL. The American Heart Association (AHA) says that a reading of HDL which is equal to 60 mg/dL or more than that, provides a protection of heart disease.

HDL Levels for Women
For women, if the HDL levels dwindles down to below 50 mg/dL, then it is considered hazardous. The normal range is 50 - 60 mg/dL.

LDL levels
An LDL level of less than 100 mg/dL is considered to be an optimal one, while the value which is near optimal or above optimal is 100-129 mg/dL. The borderline level of LDL is when it ranges from 160-189 mg/dL. There is a risk of heart disease, when the level falls between 160-189 mg/dL. If someone is diagnosed with an LDL level of 190 mg/dL, then he might have all the reason to be concerned about possible heart diseases, as this level is considered to be critical and very high.

Triglycerides Levels
Triglycerides levels less than 150 mg/dL is considered normal and 150-199 mg/dL falls between the measure of borderline and high. High level is 200-499 mg/dL and total cholesterol level is the highest, when the triglycerides level goes beyond 500 mg/dL.

Total Cholesterol Levels
When the total cholesterol level lies below 200 mg/dL, it is attributed as a normal and desirable level. This level indicates that your LDL, HDL and triglycerides levels are maintained at a safe level and you have no risk of developing heart diseases.

A measure of 200-239 mg/dL for total cholesterol level, signifies a condition which runs between borderline risk and high risk conditions. People with this type of total cholesterol level, should be more particular regarding their food choices and other lifestyle changes.

People with high risks of coronary heart diseases, are found to be have a total cholesterol level of 240 mg/dL and above. Such people should plan an immediate action plan to be worked with their doctors, for the required measures for prevention and treatment, so as to curb the levels from going up further.

Speaking about the HDL, LDL cholesterol ratios, the ideal value should be above 0.4. However, it is not possible to maintain this ratio and so, the attempt should be focused towards keeping the ratio above 0.3. In order to keep these levels at a safe point, there are several measures one can take. For example, one can also go for a low cholesterol diet, which targets towards keeping the cholesterol levels from fluctuating.