The lipid blood profile which has to be taken in the fasting state comprises the following:
- Total cholesterol
- HDL cholesterol (“Good” Cholesterol)
- LDL cholesterol (“Bad” Cholesterol)
- Total Cholesterol/HDL ratio
- Triglyceride
| Total Cholesterol |
Mmol/L |
Mg/dL |
| Desirable |
Below 5.2 |
Below 200 |
| Borderline High |
Between 5.2 to 6.1 |
Between 200 to 239 |
| High |
6.2 & Above |
240 & Above |
| HDL |
Mmol/L |
Mg/dL |
| Low |
Below 1.0 |
Below 40 |
| Desirable |
Between 1.0 to 1.5 |
Between 40 to 59 |
| High |
1.6 & above |
60 & above |
| LDL |
Mmol/L |
Mg/dL |
| Optimal |
Below 2.6 |
Below 100 |
| Desirable |
Between 2.6 to 3.3 |
Between 100 to 129 |
| Borderline High |
Between 3.4 to 4.0 |
Between 130 to 129 |
| High |
Between 4.1 to 4.8 |
Between 160 to 129 |
| Very High |
4.9 & above |
190 & above |
| Total/ HDL Ratio |
Mmol/L |
| Normal |
High |
| Below 4.5 |
4.5 and above |
| Triglycerides |
Mmol/L |
Mg/dL |
| Optimal |
Below 1.7 |
Below 150 |
| Desirable |
Between 1.7 to 2.2 |
Between 150 to 199 |
| Borderline High |
Between 2.3 to 4.4 |
Between 200 to 399 |
| High |
4.5 & above |
400 & above |
HDL is the good cholesterol in our body and is increased through exercise. High level of HDL reduces arthrosclerosis and the risk of heart attack.
LDL cholesterol is closely associated with increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Your doctor will assess your risk factors (diabetes, smoking, hypertension, family history) and prescribe medication for control if LDL levels are high. LDL cholesterol is reduced through dietary discretion (intake of low cholesterol food), exercise and cessation of smoking.
Triglyceride is a form of fat often associated with elevated LDL and total cholesterol levels and uncontrolled diabetes. An elevation in triglyceride levels increases one’s risk of heart disease. Fasting lipid blood profile is recommended annually for individuals above 40 years of age.
