Personal
Professional
Research
Personal Professional Research Sign Up Login Pro Login
Research Total Cholesterol
Lipid Panel Atherosclerosis

Total Cholesterol

Serum

Other names: CHOLESTEROL, TOTAL

Optimal Result: 0 - 199 mg/dL, or 0.00 - 5.15 mmol/L.

Total Cholesterol Test: A Vital Tool for Assessing Heart Disease Risk

A total cholesterol test is a crucial component of routine healthcare that helps evaluate an individual's heart disease risk. This test is commonly performed as part of a lipid panel, which also includes measurements of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides. By combining cholesterol test results with other known risk factors, healthcare providers can create personalized treatment plans or recommend lifestyle changes to reduce heart disease risk. High blood cholesterol is closely linked to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which can lead to serious cardiovascular issues such as heart attacks. Regular cholesterol monitoring is vital for maintaining good heart health and preventing long-term complications.

Importance of Cholesterol Testing and Key Risk Factors

Cholesterol testing is a vital part of preventive healthcare. For adults without significant risk factors, testing is recommended every 4 to 6 years. However, individuals with risk factors for heart disease may need more frequent monitoring. Key risk factors include:

  • Cigarette smoking
  • Obesity
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Age (men over 45, women over 55)
  • High blood pressure
  • Family history of heart disease
  • Diabetes

Routine cholesterol testing helps individuals stay proactive in managing their cardiovascular health, especially if they fall into any of these risk categories.

Cholesterol Levels and Heart Disease Risk Categories

Understanding your cholesterol levels is essential for assessing your heart disease risk. Here are the general classifications for total cholesterol levels in adults:

- Desirable: Less than 200 mg/dL

- Borderline high: 200-239 mg/dL

- High: 240 mg/dL and above

However, it's important to note that total cholesterol alone doesn't provide the full picture of your heart health. Healthcare providers also look at LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglyceride levels to give a more complete assessment of cardiovascular risk. Regular testing and monitoring of these levels, alongside other risk factors, can help individuals make informed decisions about their heart health.

Proactive Cholesterol Management for Heart Health

Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall well-being. By following a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, and making lifestyle changes, individuals can control their cholesterol levels and lower the likelihood of developing serious cardiovascular conditions. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice on cholesterol management and to develop a treatment plan that suits your specific health needs.

------------------------------------

References:

Grundy, S. M., Stone, N. J., Bailey, A. L., Beam, C., Birtcher, K. K., Blumenthal, R. S., Braun, L. T., de Ferranti, S., Faiella-Tommasino, J., Forman, D. E., Goldberg, R., Heidenreich, P. A., Hlatky, M. A., Jones, D. W., Lloyd-Jones, D. M., Lopez-Pajares, N., Ndumele, C. E., Orringer, C. E., Peralta, C. A., … Yeboah, J. (2019). 2018 AHA/ACC/AACVPR/AAPA/ABC/ACPM/ADA/AGS/APhA/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline on the Management of Blood Cholesterol: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 73(24), e285–e350. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2018.11.003

Stone, N. J., Robinson, J. G., Lichtenstein, A. H., Bairey Merz, C. N., Blum, C. B., Eckel, R. H., Goldberg, A. C., Gordon, D., Levy, D., Lloyd-Jones, D. M., McBride, P., Schwartz, J. S., Shero, S. T., Smith, S. C. Jr., Watson, K., & Wilson, P. W. F. (2014). 2013 ACC/AHA Guideline on the Treatment of Blood Cholesterol to Reduce Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Risk in Adults: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. Circulation, 129(25_suppl_2), S1–S45. https://doi.org/10.1161/01.cir.0000437738.63853.7a

Ference, B. A., Majeed, F., Penumetcha, R., Flack, J. M., & Brook, R. D. (2017). Association of Genetic Variants Related to CETP Inhibitors and Statins with Lipoprotein Levels and Cardiovascular Risk. JAMA, 318(10), 947–956. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2017.11467

Bachorik, P. S., & Ross, J. W. (1995). National Cholesterol Education Program Recommendations for Measurement of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol: Executive Summary. Clinical Chemistry, 41(10), 1414–1420. https://doi.org/10.1093/clinchem/41.10.1414

Jacobson, T. A., Ito, M. K., Maki, K. C., Orringer, C. E., Bays, H. E., Jones, P. H., McKenney, J. M., Grundy, S. M., Gill, E. A., Wild, R. A., Wilson, D. P., & Brown, A. S. (2015). National Lipid Association Recommendations for Patient-Centered Management of Dyslipidemia: Part 1 – Full Report. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 9(2), 129–169. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacl.2015.02.003

What does it mean if your Total Cholesterol result is too high?

Elevated Cholesterol and Heart Disease Risk

High total cholesterol levels are a major risk factor for coronary heart disease, which can lead to heart attacks or other cardiovascular issues. If you're concerned about your cholesterol levels, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and cholesterol-lowering treatments. Early detection and management can significantly reduce long-term health risks.

The Role of Cholesterol in Heart Health

There is a strong link between cholesterol levels and heart health. High total cholesterol, especially LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), contributes to atherosclerosis—the buildup of plaque in the arteries—leading to heart disease. Research shows that diets rich in plant-based foods are associated with lower cholesterol and reduced heart disease risk compared to diets high in animal-based products. Limiting dietary cholesterol and opting for heart-healthy fats can help maintain optimal cholesterol levels.

Lifestyle Changes for Cholesterol Management

Numerous studies highlight the power of lifestyle changes in managing cholesterol and improving heart health. These interventions include:

- Adopting a plant-rich diet low in saturated fats

- Quitting smoking to reduce the risk of heart disease

- Practicing stress management techniques, such as meditation or yoga

- Engaging in regular exercise, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.

Practical Tips for Reducing Cholesterol

Here are some actionable tips to help you maintain healthy cholesterol levels:

- Diet Adjustments: Focus on foods low in saturated fat, trans fats, and dietary cholesterol. Increase your intake of fiber-rich foods, like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Consider limiting or eliminating high-fat animal products, and be cautious with tropical oils, such as coconut oil, which are high in saturated fats.

- Physical Activity: Aim to exercise regularly, incorporating at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, such as brisk walking or cycling.

- Stress Management: Incorporate stress-reduction strategies into your daily routine, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness.

- Other Factors: Limit alcohol intake and, if you smoke, take steps to quit to improve overall heart health.

Statins and Lowering High Total Cholesterol

One of the most common and effective treatment options for lowering high total cholesterol is the use of statins. Statins work by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver called HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a key role in cholesterol production. By reducing the liver's cholesterol production, statins help lower LDL cholesterol (often referred to as "bad cholesterol") while slightly raising HDL cholesterol ("good cholesterol"). This reduction in cholesterol levels decreases the risk of developing atherosclerosis, heart disease, and heart attacks. Statins are typically prescribed for individuals with high cholesterol, especially when lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient to bring cholesterol levels within a healthy range. They are also used preventively for individuals with certain risk factors, such as diabetes or a history of heart disease, to reduce the likelihood of future cardiovascular events. Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential to ensure the effectiveness of statin therapy and to manage any potential side effects.

Considerations for Plant-Based Diets

For those following a plant-based diet, it's important to make healthy choices. Not all plant-based foods are beneficial. Avoid processed foods, sugary beverages, and refined grains. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods to support cholesterol management and overall health.

Considerations of Supplements

Both Amla (Indian gooseberry) and Nigella sativa (black cumin) have demonstrated promising cholesterol-lowering effects in various studies. Amla has been shown to reduce total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels comparable to some statin medications, with reductions of about 10-15% observed in clinical trials. Its effects are attributed to its high vitamin C content and other bioactive compounds. Nigella sativa, on the other hand, has been found to significantly decrease total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol levels. The cholesterol-lowering properties of Nigella sativa are believed to be due to its ability to inhibit HMG-CoA reductase expression and increase LDL receptor expression. Studies have shown that Nigella sativa seed powder and oil can effectively lower blood lipid levels in various populations, including patients with metabolic syndrome and hypercholesterolemia. Both Amla and Nigella sativa offer natural alternatives for managing cholesterol levels, potentially providing benefits similar to pharmaceutical interventions without the associated side effects.

The use of Amla (Indian gooseberry) or Nigella sativa (black cumin) for cholesterol management should only be undertaken under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. These natural remedies may interact with medications or have contraindications for certain individuals. It is crucial to discuss all treatment options, including potential benefits and risks, with your doctor before incorporating any new supplements or making changes to your current treatment plan. Your healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate approach for your specific health needs and medical history. Self-treatment without proper medical supervision may lead to unforeseen complications or inadequate management of cholesterol levels.

Consult a Healthcare Professional

Remember, these tips are general guidelines. For a personalized cholesterol management plan, consult with a healthcare provider who can tailor recommendations to your specific needs and risk factors.

------------------------------------

References:

Stone NJ, Robinson JG, Lichtenstein AH, et al. 2013 ACC/AHA guideline on the treatment of blood cholesterol to reduce atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk in adults: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. Circulation. 2014;129(25 Suppl 2):S1-S45.

Grundy SM, Stone NJ, Bailey AL, et al. 2018 AHA/ACC/AACVPR/AAPA/ABC/ACPM/ADA/AGS/APhA/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline on the Management of Blood Cholesterol: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Circulation. 2019;139(25):e1082-e1143.

Cholesterol Treatment Trialists' (CTT) Collaboration. Efficacy and safety of more intensive lowering of LDL cholesterol: a meta-analysis of data from 170,000 participants in 26 randomised trials. Lancet. 2010;376(9753):1670-1681.

Silverman MG, Ference BA, Im K, et al. Association Between Lowering LDL-C and Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Among Different Therapeutic Interventions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA. 2016;316(12):1289-1297.

Baigent C, Blackwell L, Emberson J, et al. Efficacy and safety of more intensive lowering of LDL cholesterol: a meta-analysis of data from 170,000 participants in 26 randomised trials. Lancet. 2010;376(9753):1670-1681.

Setayesh L, Haghighat N, Rasaei N, Rezaei M, Casazza K, Nadery M, Yamrali I, Zamani M, Asbaghi O. The impact of Emblica Officinalis (Amla) on lipid profile, glucose, and C-reactive protein: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Diabetes Metab Syndr. 2023 Mar;17(3):102729. doi: 10.1016/j.dsx.2023.102729. Epub 2023 Mar 11. PMID: 36934568.

Rounagh M, Musazadeh V, Hosseininejad-Mohebati A, Falahatzadeh M, Kavyani Z, Rostami RB, Vajdi M. Effects of Nigella sativa supplementation on lipid profiles in adults: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2024 Jun;61:168-180. doi: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2024.03.020. Epub 2024 Mar 22. PMID: 38777430.

What does it mean if your Total Cholesterol result is too low?

If your total cholesterol is too low, it may indicate certain health concerns. While high cholesterol is widely known to increase the risk of heart disease, very low cholesterol levels can also be problematic. Here are some potential implications of low total cholesterol:

1. Hormonal Imbalance

Cholesterol is essential for the production of certain hormones, including sex hormones (estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone) and corticosteroids (which help regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress). Low cholesterol levels could disrupt the balance of these hormones, potentially leading to issues with reproductive health, mood regulation, and overall metabolism.

2. Increased Risk of Depression or Anxiety

Some studies suggest that very low cholesterol levels may be associated with an increased risk of mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Cholesterol is a critical component in the structure of cell membranes in the brain, and inadequate levels may affect the brain’s ability to function properly.

3. Nutritional Deficiency or Malabsorption

Low cholesterol levels may be a sign of malnutrition or malabsorption conditions, such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which can prevent the body from absorbing nutrients effectively. This could also be a consequence of following an overly restrictive or unbalanced diet that lacks sufficient fats.

4. Increased Risk of Certain Cancers

Some studies have indicated that very low cholesterol levels might be linked to a slightly higher risk of certain types of cancers, although the relationship is not fully understood. Cholesterol is needed for cell membrane integrity and the production of bile acids, which are important for fat digestion and overall health.

5. Liver Disease or Other Underlying Conditions

Since cholesterol is produced in the liver, low cholesterol levels could indicate an issue with liver function or another underlying medical condition that affects cholesterol production or absorption.

6. Weakened Immune System

Cholesterol plays a role in the immune system by helping cells respond to inflammation and infection. Persistently low cholesterol levels might lead to a weakened immune response, making the body more susceptible to infections.

If your cholesterol is too low, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause and determine whether any treatment or dietary adjustments are necessary to bring your cholesterol levels into a healthy range.

------------------------------------

References:

Miettinen, T. A., et al. (1992). “Low serum cholesterol and mortality: A population-based study of 100,000 hypercholesterolemic men and women followed for 20 years.” BMJ.

Engelberg, H. (1992). “Low serum cholesterol and suicide.” The Lancet.

Muldoon, M. F., et al. (1990). “Cholesterol reduction and non-illness mortality: Meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.” BMJ.

Hyer, S. L., et al. (1993). “Low cholesterol and its relation to the risk of cancer.” Journal of Clinical Epidemiology.

Iribarren, C., et al. (1995). “Serum total cholesterol and risk of hospitalization, and death from respiratory disease.” International Journal of Epidemiology

Frequently asked questions

Healthmatters is a highly-personalized health dashboard.

Instead of searching for your lab results in different places or tracking them down from different providers, Healthmatters houses, organizes, and interprets them all in one central location.

With a Healthmatters account, you can dive into the details of each biomarker and gain insights into the meaning behind your medical test data, anytime, anywhere.

For our professional users, Healthmatters provides intuitive tools that not only streamline analysis but also save valuable time when delving into your client's lab report history.

Healthmatters.io personal account provides in-depth research on 4000+ biomarkers, including information and suggestions for test panels such as, but not limited to:

  • The GI Effects® Comprehensive Stool Profile,
  • GI-MAP,
  • The NutrEval FMV®,
  • The ION Profile,
  • Amino Acids Profile,
  • Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones (DUTCH),
  • Organic Acids Test,
  • Organix Comprehensive Profile,
  • Toxic Metals,
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC),
  • Metabolic panel,
  • Thyroid panel,
  • Lipid Panel,
  • Urinalysis,
  • And many, many more.

You can combine all test reports inside your Healthmatters account and keep them in one place. It gives you an excellent overview of all your health data. Once you retest, you can add new results and compare them.

If you are still determining whether Healthmatters support your lab results, the rule is that if you can test it, you can upload it to Healthmatters.

While we work with many popular labs, we welcome reports from lots of other places too.

It's as simple as this: if you can get a test done, you can upload it to Healthmatters and we can interpret results from any lab out there. If laboratories can analyze it, we can interpret it.

If you’re on the hunt for a specific biomarker, contact us and we'll add it to our database. Anything from blood, urine, saliva, or stool can be uploaded, understood, and tracked with your Healthmatters account.

There are two ways to add your test reports to your Healthmatters account. One option is to input the data using the data entry forms. The other method is to utilize our "Data entry service."

Our data entry forms offer an easy, fast, and free way for you to input the reports yourself. Self-entry allows you to add an unlimited number of reports at no cost. We make the self-entry process user-friendly, providing dozens of templates that pre-populate the most popular laboratory panels and offering instant feedback on entered values.

For those who prefer assistance, we offer a "Data entry service" to help you input your data. Simply attach an image or file of your lab test results, and a qualified team member from our data entry team will add the results for you.

We support various file types, including PDFs, JPGs, or Excel. This service is particularly useful if you have many reports to upload or if you're too busy to handle the data entry yourself.

Our special data entry service makes it easy to add your results to your private dashboard. Just attach an image or a file of your lab test results, and our skilled data entry team will do the work for you. It's all done by humans, ensuring that your data is entered accurately and with personal care for each client.

Depending on your account, the data entry service can be included for free or come at an additional cost of $15 per report.

For users on the Complete monthly plan, the first report is entered free of charge, and each additional report incurs a fee of $15.

Unlimited account holders enjoy the entry of ten reports without charge. Subsequent reports are subject to a $15 fee per report.

Additionally, users on the Complete plan can upgrade to a yearly subscription from the account settings. The annual subscription includes a data entry service for five reports.

The Unlimited plan is a one-time purchase for $250, and it covers your account for a lifetime with no additional payments.

For the Complete plan, the cost is $15 per month. You have the flexibility to cancel it anytime through your account settings, ensuring no further payments. To avoid charges, remember to cancel at least a day before the renewal date. Once canceled, the subscription remains active until the end of the current billing cycle.

Additionally, you can upgrade to the yearly Advanced plan from within your account. The annual cost is $79, and it comes with a data entry service for five reports.

You can always upgrade to a lifetime version with a prorated price from a monthly or yearly subscription.

Simply log in and navigate to your account settings to cancel your subscription. Scroll down to locate the 'Cancel' button at the bottom of the page. Ensure you cancel at least one day before the renewal date to prevent any charges. Once cancellation is requested, the subscription remains active until the conclusion of the current billing cycle.

Our goal has been to make your Healthmatters account as intuitive as possible.

We’ve crafted multiple ways for you to navigate your data, whether you're glancing at a single report or delving into your historical test reports.

1. Graph View:

Dive into a visual journey with our biomarker graphs, showcasing over 40 data points. Combining years of results unveils trends, empowering you to make informed decisions. Our visualization tools make it a breeze to compare and understand changes over time, even if your results are from different labs. A search function and filters simplify the exploration of extensive data, allowing you to focus on what needs attention.

2. All Tests View

Explore neatly organized reports on a timeline, highlighting crucial details like dates, critical results, and lab/panel names. Each report opens up to reveal in-depth descriptions and additional recommendations for each biomarker. The history of previous results is just a click away, and you can download a comprehensive report for deeper insights. Color-coded and user-friendly, it's designed for easy reading, understanding, and navigation.

3. Table View:

For a holistic view of all biomarkers side by side, our table view is your go-to. Results are neatly displayed in a categorized and dated table, ideal for those with an extensive test history. Utilize sorting, filters, and color-coding to enhance your analysis and gain extra insights.

Yes, you can download information from your account. We can compile your labs into a CSV file. To download all your labs, you can go to Account Settings, and at the bottom of the page, you will find a link to download your information.

Yes, you can print your report. To do so, navigate to "All tests" and open the report you wish to print. You'll find a print button in the right corner of the report. Click on it, and your browser's print window will open. If you prefer to print in a bigger typeface, adjust the scale using the print window settings.

Yes, you can! We highly recommend activating Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for your account. To do so, please navigate to the "Profile and Security" section of your account, where you will find instructions for activating 2FA.

Yes, you can. When entering values for the biomarker, you will see an "Edit Range" button. Click this button, and you'll have the option to enter a custom range.

A personal account is all about keeping your own lab test results in check. It's just for you and your personal use.

The professional account is designed for health professionals who wish to track and organize their clients' laboratory results.

To learn more about Healthmatters Pro, please refer to the professional page.

Yes, you can! Simply go to the "Invite Doctor" section, enter your doctor’s email address, and send the invitation. Your doctor will receive an email with secure access to view your results. You can revoke this access at any time. All shared information is securely encrypted and protected for your privacy.
Yes, you can! Go to the Graph view or Spreadsheet view. In the top-right corner, click "Export to Excel," and the file will be downloaded to your device.

Use promo code to save 10% off any plan.


We implement proven measures to keep your data safe.

At HealthMatters, we're committed to maintaining the security and confidentiality of your personal information. We've put industry-leading security standards in place to help protect against the loss, misuse, or alteration of the information under our control. We use procedural, physical, and electronic security methods designed to prevent unauthorized people from getting access to this information. Our internal code of conduct adds additional privacy protection. All data is backed up multiple times a day and encrypted using SSL certificates. See our Privacy Policy for more details.

Navigate to Lipid Panel

Popular search

%sdLDL-C, Apo B : Apo A-1, ApoA-I, Apolipoprotein E (APOE), Atherogenic index, Estimated CHD Risk, Fibrinogen, Glycomark (1 ,5-Anhydroglucitol), HDL % of Total Cholesterol, HDL-C, HDL-C/TG, hsCRP, IDL Cholesterol, LDL-C, LDL/HDL Cholesterol Ratio, Leptin : Adiponectin ratio, Myeloperoxidase (MPO), Non-HDL Cholesterol, Oxidized LDL, Oxidized LDL : LDL-C, OxLDL (Oxidized LDL), PLAC, PLAC (LP-PLA2 Activity), Small dense LDL Cholesterol, Small dense LDL-C : LDL-C, Total Cholesterol, Total Cholesterol/HDL Ratio, Triglycerides, Triglycerides to HDL Ratio, VLDL-C/TG, VLDL-C/TG (Boston Heart)