Question 1

What is a normal cholesterol level?

Accepted Answer

Many labs flag these as desirable for adults: total cholesterol below 200 mg/dL (5.2 mmol/L), LDL below 100 mg/dL (2.6 mmol/L), HDL of 40 mg/dL (1.0 mmol/L) or more in men and 50 mg/dL (1.3 mmol/L) or more in women, and triglycerides below 150 mg/dL (1.7 mmol/L). Your own LDL target depends on your overall risk, so it may be lower.

Question 2

What is non-HDL cholesterol?

Accepted Answer

It is total cholesterol minus HDL. It captures LDL plus other particles that can build up in arteries, and it stays reliable when you have not fasted or your triglycerides are high. Many clinicians use it alongside LDL.

Question 3

Can I lower my cholesterol without medicine?

Accepted Answer

Often by some amount. Eating less saturated fat and more fiber, vegetables and whole grains, staying active, keeping a healthy weight and limiting alcohol can improve LDL and triglycerides. Whether that is enough depends on your numbers and overall risk, which is a decision to make with your clinician.

Question 4

Why does my report show mmol/L?

Accepted Answer

Labs outside the United States usually report lipids in mmol/L. To convert cholesterol from mg/dL, divide by 38.67; for triglycerides, divide by 88.57. Always compare against the reference range printed on your own report.