Understanding your cholesterol numbers is a key step in protecting your heart health. At Brampton Internal Medicine, our team of internists helps patients interpret their lab results and take steps to reduce the risk of heart disease.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your blood. Your body needs it to build cells, but too much can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Types of Cholesterol

When you get a cholesterol test (also called a lipid panel), you’ll see several components:

1. LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) – “Bad” Cholesterol

• This type can build up on artery walls and cause blockages.

• Ideal level: Less than 2.0 mmol/L for those at risk; up to 3.5 mmol/L for low-risk individuals.

2. HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) – “Good” Cholesterol

• Helps remove LDL from the bloodstream.

• Ideal level: Greater than 1.0 mmol/L for men, and 1.3 mmol/L for women.

3. Triglycerides

• A type of fat in the blood often linked to diet and lifestyle.

• Ideal level: Less than 1.7 mmol/L.

4. Total Cholesterol

• Includes LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.

• Ideal level: Less than 5.2 mmol/L.

5. Cholesterol Ratio

• Total cholesterol divided by HDL; lower ratios indicate better heart health.

• Target ratio: Less than 4.0.

What Do These Numbers Mean for You?

Your cholesterol levels help your doctor assess your overall cardiovascular risk. High LDL, low HDL, and high triglycerides can increase the chance of:

• Heart disease

• Stroke

• Peripheral artery disease

How to Improve Your Numbers

Your internist may recommend a combination of lifestyle changes and medication, depending on your risk level. Here’s how you can help lower your cholesterol:

• Eat a heart-healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (like olive oil and nuts).

• Limit saturated and trans fats: Found in red meat, fried foods, and processed snacks.

• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.

• Quit smoking and limit alcohol.

• Take prescribed medications as directed.

Get Personalized Guidance

At Brampton Internal Medicine, we provide individualized care to help you manage cholesterol and prevent heart disease. If your numbers are outside the normal range, we’ll work with you on a plan to bring them back into balance.