What cholesterol levels are normal?

There is no single "normal" cholesterol level, as the ideal levels can vary based on individual risk factors, such as age, sex, and existing health conditions. However, guidelines often suggest the following:

• Total Cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL is considered desirable.
• LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein, "bad" cholesterol): Less than 100 mg/dL is optimal. Levels above 160 mg/dL are considered high and warrant intervention.
• HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein, "good" cholesterol): 60 mg/dL or higher is considered protective against heart disease, while levels less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women are considered a risk factor.
• Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL is normal, while levels above 200 mg/dL are high.

The primary goal is to maintain these levels to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It's noted that lifestyle and genetic factors significantly affect these levels, and managing glucose through diet and exercise can also play a role in maintaining proper cholesterol ratios 1. Pharmacological interventions may sometimes be necessary, especially when dietary changes alone are insufficient to reach desired lipid levels 2.