Author: MAI Medical Information Team ·
Reviewed: 2026-04-14 ·
Sources: WHO, UpToDate, PubMed
Cholesterol Levels: Normal Range, LDL vs HDL & How to Lower It
Cholesterol is one of the most commonly checked blood markers. Understanding your numbers is key to preventing heart disease — the world's leading cause of death.
Important: This article is for informational purposes. Discuss cholesterol management with your doctor.
Cholesterol Normal Ranges
| Marker | Desirable | Borderline | High Risk | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Cholesterol | <200 | 200–239 | ≥240 | mg/dL |
| LDL ("bad") | <100 | 130–159 | ≥160 | mg/dL |
| HDL ("good") | >60 | 40–59 | <40 | mg/dL |
| Triglycerides | <150 | 150–199 | ≥200 | mg/dL |
LDL vs HDL: What's the Difference?
LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) is called "bad" cholesterol because it builds up in artery walls, increasing heart attack and stroke risk.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) is "good" cholesterol that helps remove excess cholesterol from your arteries.
How to Lower Cholesterol Naturally
- Eat more fiber — oats, beans, fruits, vegetables
- Omega-3 fatty acids — fatty fish, flaxseeds, walnuts
- Exercise regularly — at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week
- Maintain healthy weight — even 5-10% weight loss improves cholesterol
- Quit smoking — HDL starts improving within 3 months
- Limit saturated fats — reduce red meat, full-fat dairy, fried foods
MAI Tip: Upload your lipid panel results to MAI for a free AI-powered analysis with personalized recommendations.
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⚠️ Important: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Always consult your doctor before making health decisions.
Sources: World Health Organization (WHO), UpToDate Clinical Reference, PubMed Medical Research Database.
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Sources: World Health Organization (WHO), UpToDate Clinical Reference, PubMed Medical Research Database.