What Do Your Cholesterol Numbers Mean? Total Cholesterol A measure of the total amount of cholesterol in your blood. This can be influenced by your family history and diet. Desirable Less than 200 mg/dL Borderline High 200 to 239 mg/dL High 240 mg/dL or above LDL Levels It is sometimes called "bad cholesterol" because it encourages plaque to stick to the artery walls. It is strongly linked with cardiovascular disease risk. You want your LDL levels to be as low as possible. Optimal Less than 100 mg/dL Near optimal or above optimal 100 to 129 mg/dL Borderline High 130 to 159 mg/dL High 160 to 189 mg/dL Very High 190 mg/dL and above HDL Levels It is frequently called the "good cholesterol" because it clears excess cholesterol from your blood. You want your HDL levels to be as high as possible. Lowers your risk for developing heart disease Levels of 60 mg/dL or higher Increases your risk for developing heart disease Levels of less than 40 mg/dL Triglycerides It is a major form of fat (lipid) in the body and in food, which contributes to heart disease. Normal Below 150 Borderline 150 to 199 High Risk 200 + Total Cholesterol: HDL Ratio This is a risk for developing heart disease. Total cholesterol divided by your HDL. Desirable for Men 4.5 or less Desirable for Women 4.5 or less IMPORTANT: consider reviewing your results with your doctor at your next visit, especially if you have a chronic illness (heart disease, diabetes) as the recommended levels might differ from those listed above. selecthealth 2006 SelectHealth. All rights reserved. 0423 07/06 36