Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol measures the combined amount of all cholesterol types in your blood, including LDL, HDL, and VLDL cholesterol.
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Why It Matters
Cholesterol is essential for cell membranes, hormone production, and vitamin D synthesis. However, elevated levels increase cardiovascular disease risk.
If Your Level Is High
High total cholesterol may indicate increased cardiovascular risk, genetic hypercholesterolemia, hypothyroidism, or dietary factors.
Possible Causes
- Poor diet
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Genetic factors
- Hypothyroidism
- Obesity
If Your Level Is Low
Very low cholesterol may suggest malnutrition, liver disease, hyperthyroidism, or malabsorption disorders.
Possible Causes
- Malnutrition
- Liver disease
- Hyperthyroidism
- Malabsorption
How to Optimize
Focus on a heart-healthy diet rich in fiber and omega-3s, exercise regularly, maintain healthy weight, limit saturated fats, and consider medication if lifestyle changes are insufficient.
Dietary Factors
- Saturated fats
- Trans fats
- Dietary cholesterol
- Fiber intake
Lifestyle Factors
- Physical activity
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Stress
[RELATED MARKERS]
LDL Cholesterol
LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol carries cholesterol from the liver to cells throughout the body.
HDL Cholesterol
HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol transports cholesterol away from arteries back to the liver for processing.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the body, stored in fat cells and used for energy between meals.