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Q.

How much cholesterol is too much?

Related Topics: Cholesterol
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Answers From Experts & Organizations (1)

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A.

Everyone over the age of 20 should get their cholesterol levels measured at least once every five years.

When being tested, your doctor may recommend a non-fasting cholesterol test or a fasting cholesterol test. A non-fasting cholesterol test will show your total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. A fasting cholesterol test, called a lipid profile or a lipoprotein analysis, will measure your LDL, HDL, and total cholesterol. It will also measure triglycerides.

Your doctor may start with a non-fasting cholesterol test and then recommend a lipid profile, based on your results.

Doctors recommend your cholesterol stay below 200. Here is the breakdown for total cholesterol:

  • Less than 200: desirable.
  • 200 - 239: borderline high.
  • 240 and above: high.

Your LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels are important, as well.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...down arrowThis answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.up arrow

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Read the Original Article: The Basics of Cholesterol