Things You'll Need:
- Your total cholesterol level
- Your LDL and HDL cholesterol levels
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Step 1
Learn about the role cholesterol plays in your body. Found in certain foods, this sticky substance is necessary for making vitamin D and various hormones, to build cell walls and to help digest fat.
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Step 2
Understand the difference between "good" and "bad" cholesterol. HDL-C, considered "good," helps rid the body of cholesterol by returning it to the liver. LDL-C, considered "bad," can present health problems if there is too much of it in your bloodstream.
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Step 3
Know what the most favorable HDL-C, LDL-C and total cholesterol levels are so you can better understand your own cholesterol. The ideal total cholesterol level is less than 100 mg/dl, 200 to 239 mg/dl borders on the high side and 240+ is cause for concern.
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Step 4
Remember that an HDL-C level of 60 mg/dl is recognized as high and anything under 40 mg/dl is considered low. The ideal LDL-C level is less than 100 mg/dl, 100 to 129 is near or above what is considered ideal, 130 to 159 borders on high, 160 to 189 is considered high and 190+ is extremely high.
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Step 5
Be aware of factors that can impact your cholesterol levels, such as smoking, age (45+ for men and 55+ for women), diabetes, high blood pressure and a family history of heart disease. Consult with your physician about monitoring your cholesterol if any of these factors apply to you.
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Step 6
Assess the various ways to manage your cholesterol levels, including exercise, diet and medication. Ask your physician what would work best for you.
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Step 7
Have your cholesterol levels checked regularly by your physician. Keep a record of your HDL-C, LDL-C and total cholesterol levels, especially if your levels are high, for future reference.
