Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol is the sum of LDL (bad), HDL (good), and VLDL cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance essential for building cell membranes, making hormones, and producing vitamin D. However, excess cholesterol — particularly LDL — can deposit in artery walls and lead to heart disease.
Reference Ranges
Male
125 – 200
mg/dL
Female
125 – 200
mg/dL
Child
120 – 200
mg/dL
Ages 2–18
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Always compare with the range printed on your lab report.
What Low Levels Mean
Total cholesterol below 120 mg/dL is rare and may be associated with malnutrition, hyperthyroidism, liver disease, or certain genetic conditions. Very low cholesterol has been linked to increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke and depression in some studies, though the evidence is not definitive.
What High Levels Mean
Total cholesterol above 200 mg/dL is considered borderline high, and above 240 mg/dL is high. However, the total number alone is not as meaningful as the LDL/HDL breakdown. A total of 220 with high HDL is much better than 190 with very high LDL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is total cholesterol the most important number?
No. LDL cholesterol and the total-to-HDL ratio are more predictive of heart disease risk. A person with total cholesterol of 210 but HDL of 70 has a better risk profile than someone with total cholesterol of 180 but HDL of 30.
Can diet alone lower cholesterol?
For some people, yes. Reducing saturated fats (ghee, full-fat dairy, red meat), increasing fiber (oats, beans, fruits), and adding plant sterols can lower total cholesterol by 10–20%. However, genetics play a large role — some people need medication despite a good diet.
Should children get cholesterol tested?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends universal screening once between ages 9–11 and again between 17–21. Children with a family history of heart disease or high cholesterol should be tested earlier.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for interpretation of your test results.
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