High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, and it is essential to get your cholesterol numbers checked regularly. The following are the cholesterol levels that are considered healthy or unhealthy:

• Total cholesterol:

  • High risk: 240 mg/dL and above
  • Borderline high risk: 200-239 mg/dL
  • Healthy: less than 200 mg/dL

• LDL cholesterol:

  • High risk: 190 mg/dL and above
  • Borderline high risk: 130-159 mg/dL
  • Healthy: less than 100 mg/dL

• HDL cholesterol:

  • High risk: Less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women
  • Healthy: 60 mg/dL and above

• Triglycerides:

  • High risk: 500 mg/dL or higher
  • Borderline high risk: 150-199 mg/dL
  • Healthy: less than 150 mg/dL

On average, a dangerously high level of either type of cholesterol is typically defined as one higher than 240 mg/dL when measured by a simple blood test known as a lipid profile or lipoprotein panel. If your cholesterol levels are too high, it is a red flag for you and your healthcare provider, and you may need to discuss potential treatments with your doctor such as dietary changes and medications that can help reduce these levels accordingly.