my total cholesterol is 237- HDL is 28--LDL is 182& try's 135 How can try's be good& HDL so low .
with optimal try's of 135& high LDL of 182 I was told i wasn't at risk because my bad was the light & fluffy kind,they said they could tell this because my try's were so good ,is this true?
Hi James,
That is interesting. I have never heard any type of lipid (fat) referred to as "light and fluffy". I recommend you discuss your lab results with your MD again to make sure you are both on the same page and there is no confusion.
Here is my take on the numbers you have given:
1. Total cholesterol - too high. You want to get it back below 200.
2. HDL (good) cholesterol - too low. You want to be above 60. The best way to raise HDL is by increasing your activity. Work up to a 30 minute walk 5 or more days a week.
3. LDL (bad) cholesterol - too high. Should be below 130. Replace saturated fats (whole or 2% milk, high fat meats, butter, shortening, etc.) in your diet with unsaturated fats (low fat milk, lean meats, light margarine, canola oil, etc.).
4. Triglycerides - like you said, they are great. Keep your triglycerides under 200. Sugar and alcohol have a direct impact on triglycerides, which is why HDL came be low and triglycerides just fine. The sugar and alcohol do not impact HDL the same way, activity affects HDL more.
As far as, not needing to worry because of the good triglyceride to LDL ratio, speak with your MD again. Not too say, he isn't correct, just not a ratio I have seen used.
You only gain benefits if you make changes and get all numbers in the ideal range!
All the best,
Lisa Nelson, RD, LN
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