What is the Desirable LDL Bad Cholesterol Level

When it comes to modern medicine, everyone has different variables to shoot for in terms of desirable numbers and results. Despite this variability, however, there is some common ground that can be found in a number of places. In the world of cholesterol, there is good cholesterol and bad cholesterol… and you don’t want high numbers for your bad cholesterol, called low-density lipoprotein [LPL]. The higher your LPL numbers are, the more at risk you are of developing heart disease, circulatory problems, and other health issues.

What are the numbers you should shoot for in the LDL category?

Your Ideal Numbers Depend on Your Risks

If you are at a high risk of developing heart disease, then your ideal LDL numbers are going to be less than someone who doesn’t have the same diagnosis. Even an increased risk is different than a high risk and there are different expectations there as well. Here are the ideal numbers that you’ll want to shoot for in each risk category:

  • For people with no added risk of heart disease: 100-129mg/dL
  • For people with an increased risk of heart disease: Below 100mg/dL
  • For people with a high risk of heart disease: Below 70mg/DL

As you can see, the risks of heart disease development can contribute greatly to what is considered a normal reading of bad LDL cholesterol. Without risks, your bad numbers can still be considered normal even if they are almost twice the reading that someone with high risks of heart disease development has. That’s just one reason why reducing your risks of long-term health problems is so critical.

Borderline Numbers Can Still Be Considered Normal

Maybe you got your cholesterol results back and there were above 130. That’s still fine for many people and the most you’ll receive is a lecture from your doctor about taking care of yourself a little bit better. The closer your number is to 130, the better off you are, but even at 159 you’re still considered borderline high and could be considered normal depending on your unique medical history and condition.

Once you reach a number that is 160 or above, then your bad LDL numbers are going to be considered high in any group. This is where you’ll need to begin managing your diet more effectively, start getting some regular exercise, and even think about taking cholesterol drugs to lower these numbers. If you’re near 160, however, many times this number can be reduced with some basic lifestyle changes.

If your LDL numbers are 190 or above, they are considered very high and you will likely be prescribed medication to begin lowering these numbers immediately. You may also be given a prescription diet or be placed on an exercise program. Wellness programs are also sometimes part of the treatment plan with LDL numbers that are this high.

The good news is that even with high LDL cholesterol numbers, you can begin working to lower those numbers starting right now. Get your routine under control, start taking some steps to become more heart healthy, and your body will thank you for the efforts one day.