What is a Cholesterol Test?

The cholesterol test results give the total amount of cholesterol – LDL and HDL cholesterol and triglycerides – present in the blood. The test results are compared with the standard levels for a particular age or gender. Generally, total cholesterol less than 200 mg/dL is considered safe and healthy for all age groups.

The cholesterol test results can give an early warning for heart disease and stroke in case of high LDL levels. This will enable you to be cautious and change your lifestyle to reduce cholesterol. It is also necessary for people who have recently been affected with heart disease to monitor the level of cholesterol after surgery or taking medications.

During the test, the lab technician will use a sterile needle and take a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The procedure is safe and almost painless. The sample will be analysed in the laboratory to produce your results. You can go back to work after giving the sample. There are no side effects of taking the test, but you may feel mild pain at the injection site.

The ideal total cholesterol range is less than 200 mg/dL, with HDL greater than 40 mg/dL and LDL less than 100 mg/dL. Total cholesterol levels higher than 200 mg/dL are considered risky. You will be advised to reduce the intake of fried foods and perform more cardio exercises to keep the levels under control.

Yes. You may have to fast for 9–12 hours before giving a blood sample for a cholesterol test. You may drink water during this period. You may have to stop medication (if you are taking it for any ailment) for a few days. Consult your doctor regarding the same before giving the sample.

Low-density cholesterol, also known as LDL, is often referred to as ‘bad’ cholesterol. This gets accumulated very easily. The low-density cholesterol/high-density cholesterol ratio helps detect the probability of heart disease. LDL/HDL ratio of 3.5 is usually considered normal and of low risk. A higher ratio indicates higher risk.

HDL (‘good’ cholesterol) helps eliminate LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol) out of the body. So, you can increase your HDL levels and lower cholesterol by decreasing your weight, cardio exercises, and portion control. Eat healthier monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats to improve HDL levels, like nuts, plants, and fish like salmon and tuna. Eat high-fibre foods and avoid fat-containing foods.

If you are a healthy adult, check your cholesterol level once every 4–6 years. If you or your family have a history of heart disease, it is better to test cholesterol levels frequently, like once every year. This will help you know your body’s condition and prevent heart disease.

It is better to avoid fried foods, processed meats, fast foods, and desserts. These have high cholesterol and can elevate your blood cholesterol levels quickly. Instead, you can eat cheese, organ meat, yoghurt, and shellfish to reduce cholesterol levels by increasing HDL levels in your blood to mobilise LDL.