What Are The Acceptable Levels Of Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy lipid like substance found in our body. It performs certain useful functions. It helps in the secretions of hormones, formation of Vitamin D and the formation of new cells. However excess of cholesterol in or blood is deposited in the form of a plaque in the walls of our arteries. It leads to the condition called atherosclerosis that leads to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease or stroke.

To maintain a good state of health, it is essential to keep your cholesterol levels within clinically acceptable limits. The acceptable limits differ for men and women. However if you are a male and above 35, then it is advisable to have your blood cholesterol levels checked. The incidence of high cholesterol is accentuated because of a faulty diet and lack of exercise.

Total blood cholesterol is measured using the traditional unit mg/dl. This unit stands for the cholesterol level in milligrams per deciliter of blood. Ideally, for an adult, the level of blood cholesterol should be below 180 mg/dl. The acceptable cholesterol levels are between 180-199 mg/dl. A level above 200 mg/dl indicates a heightened risk of atherosclerosis. A level above 240 mg/dl indicates a very high level of cholesterol. In such a case it becomes very essential to consult a physician.

Clinically acceptable blood cholesterol levels are different for LDL low density lipoprotein and HDL or high density lipoprotein. The level is a minimum 40 mg /dl for HDL as this is good cholesterol and a maximum of 100 mg/dl for LDL as this is bad cholesterol.

Thus, it is necessary to undergo blood cholesterol tests as a way to keep track of acceptable cholesterol levels. If an individual is suffering from a high cholesterol level, medical diagnosis becomes a necessity.
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