Total Cholesterol

• According to the American Heart Association (AHA), desirable total cholesterol levels are those below 200 milligrams per deciliter. Borderline high risk includes 200 to 239 milligrams per deciliter. Anything over 240 milligrams per deciliter is considered high risk.
  
  

LDL Cholesterol

• Low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is the bad cholesterol that can clog your arteries and cause a heart attack. The AHA defines an optimal LDL level as being below 100 milligrams per deciliter. 160 to 189 milligrams per deciliters is high. Over 190 milligrams per deciliter is very high.
  
  

HDL Cholesterol

• High density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is the good type that helps clear artery blockages. Higher levels of HDL are better. An HDL number of over 60 milligrams per deciliter is considered ideal for warding off heart disease.
  
  

Triglycerides

• Triglycerides are a type of fat that can raise your LDL and lower your HDL. Anything over 200 milligrams per deciliter is considered high triglycerides.
  
  

Prevention

• Prevent a high cholesterol level by choosing nutritious foods. Exercise regularly and include aerobics in your program. Avoid cigarette smoking.