COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 146
which produces about 80% of the cholesterol needed, and
dietary sources, mainly animal products such as meat, dairy, and
eggs.
Total cholesterol refers to the overall amount of cholesterol in your
blood, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density
lipoprotein (HDL), and triglycerides. LDL is often referred to as "bad"
cholesterol because high levels can lead to plaque buildup in
arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.
HDL is known as "good" cholesterol as it helps remove cholesterol
from the bloodstream and transport it to the liver for elimination.
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood that the body
uses for energy. They are formed from excess calories, particularly
from carbohydrates. Triglycerides are different from cholesterol
although both are lipids.
When to run this test:
Cholesterol should be tested starting early in life, 17 to 21. It's
generally recommended for adults to have cholesterol checked
every 4 to 6 years, but those with risk factors may need more
frequent testing.
Cholesterol levels for adults. Alarm range is below 50 and above
400 mg/dL.
Normal
Range
115- 200 mg/dL
Optimal
Range
165-220 mg/dL
Normal
Triglycerides
Range
30-149 mg/dL
Optimal
Range
70-105 mg/dL
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