Understanding Cholesterol: Good vs. Bad and How to Keep Them in Check

What values ​​are indicated for good cholesterol and for bad cholesterol? Are they the same for all of us?

One of the analyzes that should be done at least annually or according to the doctor’s recommendations is the test that indicates the cholesterol levels in the blood. High cholesterol is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis, stroke and heart attack. Normal values ​​depend on the person’s age, associated conditions, so they must be interpreted by the doctor in the clinical context.

How are you doing with your cholesterol – one of the questions we often hear from family doctors. They are not the same throughout life but it depends on several factors “For a healthy adult under normal conditions, LDL cholesterol values ​​are between 50 and 150 mg/dl. The optimal level of HDL cholesterol is approximately 40-60 mg/dl; those below 40 mg/dl are associated with a higher cardiovascular risk” explained Dr. Ruxandra Constantina, family doctor, general medicine, apiphytotherapy.

What other information is good to have with you at the consultation for the cardiovascular system?

For the doctor, different reports are also important that represent a risk indicator for cardiovascular disease. “Thus, the optimal LDL/HDL ratio varies between 2.9 (women) – 3.3 (men); its increase above 3.5-3.8 indicates a risk of heart disease” added the family doctor.

What habits can affect cholesterol levels?

The level of bad cholesterol can increase both due to genetic factors, but also due to lifestyle factors. Among the factors favoring the increase of blood cholesterol: smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, sedentary lifestyle. Any type of brisk physical movement is important to help the body function normally. Brisk walking, swimming, jogging, cycling, exercise at the gym 3 times/week. Although the market for natural cholesterol-lowering products is very rich and varied, the therapy must be individualized according to the patient’s age, associated conditions, risk factors, etc. Attention, therefore, self-medication is not recommended, although a large number of Romanians practice it.