Knowing your cholesterol numbers helps you manage your overall health.
The terms “good” and “bad” are commonly used when referring to cholesterol.
Experts say your high-density lipids (HDL), or good cholesterol, should be higher than 60 mg/dL, while your low-density lipids (LDL), or bad cholesterol, should be less than 100 mg/dL.
Total cholesterol — the combination of LDL, HDL and triglycerides — determines your risk for potential health complications.
A healthy total cholesterol number is considered less than 200 mg/dL.
If your total cholesterol is higher than this number, you may have an increased risk of developing heart disease, a heart attack or stroke.
Visit your health care provider for a complete screening that includes checks of your cholesterol, body mass index (BMI) and other risk factors.
If your total cholesterol is too high, you can work with your doctor to lower it.
Visit your health plan’s website to find a doctor or health provider. The LiteBlue Wellness page has more information.