What Are The Ideal Cholesterol Levels For Kids,Women And Men

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a substance produced by your liver. It plays a critical role in the production of certain hormones, cell tissues and helps prevent nerve damage. A poor diet can lead to the overaccumulation of Cholesterol and have a range of adverse effects on your health, especially cardiovascular.

How Are Cholesterol Levels Measured?

A blood test called Lipid panel test or Lipid profile can provide this information. It gives the data for Total cholesterol, High-density lipoprotein (HDL), Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and Triglycerides. High LDL levels are dangerous, for people of any age or gender.

Cholesterol Levels For Children

Make it a point to screen your child once between the ages of 9 to 11 and then 17 to 20 years. Ensure that their total cholesterol is under 170 mg/DL and LDL levels less than 110 mg/DL. Anything above these levels might require moderate to large changes in diet, based on your doctor's recommendation. (mg/DL = milligrams per deciliter)

Cholesterol Levels For Men

Young adult men should get their cholesterol screened every 5 years until they turn 45. If there is any family history, then this can be done every 2 years. Annual checkups should become routine after hitting 45 years of age. Ensure your Total cholesterol levels are under 200 mg/dL and HDL levels are 60 mg/dL or more.

Cholesterol Levels For Women

Women tend to have higher amounts of HDL compared to men due to the presence of the Estrogen hormone. Make it a point to ensure the triglyceride levels are less than 150 mg/dL and total cholesterol rates are below 200 mg/dL.

Maintain Healthy 'Family Cholesterol'

A healthy and active lifestyle should be pursued by the family as a whole, so that everyone is fit for their respective age. Eat healthy, avoid trans-fats and sugary foods, make sure nobody smokes, exercise and play something outdoors together.

Medanta Medical Team