What do the results mean?Cholesterol is usually measured in milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per deciliter (dL) of blood. The information below shows how the different types of cholesterol measurements are categorized.Total Cholesterol LevelCategoryLess than 200mg/dLDesirable200-239 mg/dLBorderline high240mg/dL and aboveHighLDL (Bad) Cholesterol LevelLDL Cholesterol CategoryLess than 100mg/dLOptimal100-129mg/dLNear optimal/above optimal130-159 mg/dLBorderline high160-189 mg/dLHigh190 mg/dL and aboveVery HighHDL (Good) Cholesterol LevelHDL Cholesterol Category60 mg/dL and higherConsidered protective against heart disease40-59 mg/dLThe higher, the betterLess than 40 mg/dLA major risk factor for heart diseaseA healthy cholesterol range for you may depend on your age, family history, lifestyle, and other risk factors. In general, low LDL levels and high HDL cholesterol levels are good for heart health. High levels of triglycerides may also put you at risk for heart disease.The LDL on your results may say "calculated" which means it includes a calculation of total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides. Your LDL level may also be measured "directly," without using other measurements. Regardless, you want your LDL number to be low.Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.
