Hi! I am 25 with a BMI of 19.5 and these are my Cholesterol numbers.
Do I REALLY need to take medication??
Total: 282
Tri: 152
HDL: 69
LDL: 183
I am a healthy eater, active and only 25!! Am I really building plaque and at risk, even though NO ONE in my family has ever died from heart disease? Thanks!!
Hi Krissy,
There are steps you can take to lower cholesterol levels.
Your LDL level is contributing to your high total cholesterol level. LDL is impacted the most by saturated and trans fat intake. To lower levels thoroughly evaluate the foods you eat for saturated and trans fat content. Also, consider increasing soluble fiber intake to lower LDL levels.
Your triglyceride level is not terrible, but it can be lowered further. Check out the post below for tips to lower triglyceride levels:
Triglycerides: Why They Matter and How to Lower Them
You may also benefit from an expanded lipid profile. This lab work looks at additional heart health labs to better assess your risk and determine medication needs. You can learn more about an expanded lipid profile in this answer from Dr. Cynthia Shelby-Lane regarding HDL levels:
All the best,
Lisa Nelson RD
- Thank you for your input
- Ranked Helpful (2)
- Report Abuse
