Guide to Healthy Cholesterol Levels by Age

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty, wax-like substance vital for our body's functions, including cell membrane formation and hormone production. There are two types of cholesterols; one is low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and one is High-density lipoprotein (HDL). Too much low-density lipoprotein (LDL) can lead to artery blockages, increasing the risk of heart disease. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is considered the "good" cholesterol. It helps remove excess unwanted cholesterol. For good heart health, maintaining a healthy cholesterol level is crucial.

What Are Cholesterol Levels?

The combination of LDL and HDL cholesterol is known as total cholesterol. The balance between these two is known as the cholesterol level. Calculating your cholesterol ratio (Dividing your total cholesterol by your HDL cholesterol) can help predict your risk of a heart attack or stroke over your lifetime or for the next ten years. Cholesterol levels can vary based on factors including age, weight, and gender. Typically, cholesterol levels tend to advance with one’s age. It is one of the reasons every individual above the age of twenty should have their cholesterol checked every five years.

Healthy Cholesterol Levels by Age

Cholesterol levels vary at different stages of life. The patient must know what range constitutes healthy cholesterol levels for various age groups. Let's begin with infants and children:

1. Cholesterol Levels for Children (Ages 1 to 19)

In childhood, cholesterol levels are generally lower than in adults, but they play a crucial role in overall health. Monitoring and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels can contribute to a lifetime of good heart health.

Here's a chart depicting healthy cholesterol levels for infants and children:^[1].

Type	Total Cholesterol	HDL Cholesterol	LDL Cholesterol	Triglycerides
Good	170 or less	Greater than 45	Less than 110	Less than 75 in children 0–9; less than 90 in children 10–19
Borderline	170–199	40-45	110–129	75–99 in children 0–9; 90–129 in children 10–19
High	200 or higher	n/a	130 or higher	100 or more in children 0–9; 130 or more in children 10–19
Low	n/a	Less than 40	n/a	n/a

During adolescence, it is necessary to maintain a healthy cholesterol level as it reduces the risk of heart disease later in life. Teenagers should adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

Current guidelines suggest cholesterol screening for children at two key stages, that is, all children between the ages of 9 and 11 years and then again between ages 17 and 21. However, children with additional risk factors, such as diabetes, obesity, or a family history of high cholesterol, should undergo screening earlier, between the ages of 2 and 8 years, and then once more between ages 12 and 16.

Cholesterol Levels for Adults (20 to 60)

Maintaining these cholesterol levels is essential to reduce the risk of heart disease and related complications. The required steps for all adults in this age range include regular monitoring, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, and, if necessary, working with a healthcare provider to maintain these cholesterol levels.

Healthy Cholesterol Levels for Adults Chart^[1].

Type of Cholesterol	Desirable Level (mg/dL)	Borderline Level (mg/dL)	High Level (mg/dL)
Total Cholesterol	Less than 200	200 to 239	240 or higher
LDL (Bad Cholesterol)	Less than 100	100 to 129	130 or higher
HDL (Good Cholesterol)	60 or higher	40 to 59	Less than 40
Triglycerides	Less than 150	150 to 199	200 or higher

How Are Cholesterol Levels Measured?

Assessing cholesterol levels is a part of evaluating heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Multiple testing methods are employed to measure these levels. The most common of them is a Lipid Profile via a blood test. A Lipid Profile measures various types of cholesterol in the blood, including LDL (low-density lipoprotein), HDL (high-density lipoprotein), and total cholesterol.

Often, a Lipid Profile requires a patient to fast for at least 9-12 hours before this test to obtain more accurate results, as eating can temporarily affect cholesterol levels. In certain cases, a Lipid Profile can also be performed without fasting.

How Often Should I Get a Cholesterol Test?

How often you get your cholesterol checked depends on several factors. Typically, as you age, the frequency of cholesterol checks increases. If you have a close family member with a history of heart disease, high cholesterol, a heart attack, or a stroke, you may require more frequent tests.

Furthermore, if you've been diagnosed with heart disease or have other risk factors, your healthcare provider may recommend more frequent monitoring of your cholesterol levels. The frequency of testing also varies based on the sex assigned at birth. For example, individuals assigned male at birth generally should start testing at a younger age and should have different testing intervals compared to those set for females.

Here’s a chart according to gender at birth on how often to get tested for cholesterol - ^[2].

People assigned male at birth

Age	How Often to Get Cholesterol Checked
20 to 44	Every five years.
45 to 65	Every one to two years.
65+	Every year.

People assigned female at birth

Age	How Often to Get Cholesterol Checked
20 to 54	Every five years.
55 to 65	Every one to two years.
65+	Every year.

What Affects Cholesterol Levels?

Several factors can impact your cholesterol levels. It is essential to be conscious of a few things, including diet, physical activity, genes, etc. Tending to your cholesterol levels involves awareness of the following factors:

• Dietary Choices: Dietary selections play a pivotal role in cholesterol management. A diet rich in saturated and trans fats can elevate LDL cholesterol (bad) levels. Incorporating fiber-rich foods can help maintain a healthy balance.
• Physical Activity: Physical activity can raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels while contributing to cardiovascular health.
• Genetics: Genetic predisposition can affect cholesterol levels. Some individuals may inherit genes that predispose them to high cholesterol. These genes make it crucial to monitor and manage accordingly.
• Age and Gender: Age is a non-reversible factor that cannot go unnoticed. Cholesterol levels tend to rise with age, particularly in women after menopause. Understanding these fluctuations is vital for appropriate cholesterol management.
• Body Weight: Maintaining a healthy body weight is essential. Excess weight can lead to unfavourable shifts in cholesterol levels, underlining the importance of weight management.
• Lifestyle Habits: Lifestyle choices matter in cholesterol maintenance. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can adversely affect cholesterol levels, emphasizing the need for a balanced lifestyle.

How Can I Lower My Cholesterol?

Effectively managing cholesterol plays a vital role in preserving heart health. A low level of unwanted cholesterol can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. Here are some practical steps to help you lower your cholesterol levels and promote a healthier heart:

• Healthy Diet: Start by adopting a heart-healthy diet. Focus on eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reduce your intake of fried foods, baked goods, and processed snacks as they contain saturated and trans fats.
• Incorporate Regular Exercise: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Activities like brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling can help improve your heart health.
• Include Dietary Fibre in your Diet: Increase your consumption of dietary fiber. Foods like oats, beans, lentils, and fruits like apples and pears are rich in soluble fiber, which can help lower LDL cholesterol (bad) levels.
• Include Healthy Fats in Diet: Choose healthy fats, such as olive oil, avocados, and nuts. These fats can help raise HDL cholesterol (good) levels and lower LDL cholesterol.
• Limit / Avoid Alcohol: If you consume alcohol, do it in moderation or avoid it entirely. Excessive alcohol intake can raise triglyceride levels and contribute to high cholesterol.
• Lifestyle Changes: Make positive lifestyle choices. Quit smoking, as smoking damages blood vessels and lowers HDL cholesterol. Manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

When to Speak to a Doctor

here are only a few noticeable symptoms of high cholesterol. Emergency symptoms such as a stroke or heart attack may be the only indicator of damage from high cholesterol. Hence, regular monitoring by a doctor is essential.

Most people, including heart patients, should get their cholesterol checked with a blood test every 4 to 6 years. The healthcare provider might suggest a few more screenings if -

• You have a history of heart conditions.
• You have a family history of high cholesterol.
• You have high blood pressure.
• You smoke.
• You are obese.

FAQs about Cholesterol Levels For Different Age Groups

our cholesterol journey evolves with age, and it's essential to understand how it impacts your health at different stages of life.

Here are some frequently asked questions about cholesterol levels for different age groups:

Q1. What lifestyle changes can help me manage cholesterol in my 40s and 50s?

In your 40s and 50s, lifestyle modifications play a vital role in managing cholesterol. Focus on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight management. Reduce saturated fats, increase fiber intake, and limit alcohol consumption. Make sure to get regular cholesterol checks and consultation with a healthcare provider.

Q2. Are there specific cholesterol guidelines for men and women?

While cholesterol guidelines are generally similar for men and women, there can be variations. Women may have higher HDL cholesterol (good) levels and lower LDL cholesterol (bad) levels when compared to men. Hormonal changes in women, especially after menopause, can influence cholesterol levels.

Q3. Can genetics play a significant role in cholesterol levels as we age?

Yes, genetics can strongly influence cholesterol levels. A family history of high cholesterol can increase your risk. Be aware of your family's health history and discuss it with your healthcare provider. They can help tailor a cholesterol management plan based on your genetic predisposition.

Q4. Can cholesterol levels affect my risk of heart disease at a young age?

Yes, high cholesterol levels can impact your heart health at a young age. Faulty genes, an unhealthy lifestyle, and dietary choices can contribute to elevated cholesterol. Keep monitoring these cholesterol levels from a young age and adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle to eliminate these risks.

Q5. Can cholesterol levels impact the risk of other health conditions as we age?

Absolutely. High cholesterol is not just a concern for heart health. It can also affect your risk of stroke and peripheral artery disease. Moreover, elevated cholesterol levels can contribute to gallstones and fatty liver disease. Managing cholesterol is essential for overall well-being as you age.

Conclusion

Our health is a lifelong companion on the journey of life. Cholesterol levels evolve with age. It is essential to understand and manage it. From childhood to senior years, monitoring cholesterol, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle are crucial. Know your numbers, make informed choices, and embrace age with well-being in mind.

Join Us in the Fight for Healthy Hearts – Visit DPU Hospital Now!

At DPU Hospital, we provide comprehensive assessments, lifestyle guidance, and medical interventions for your heart health. Take a proactive step toward a healthier future. Schedule your appointment today and prioritize your heart health. Your Heart Matters!

Reference:

https://www.healthline.com/health/high-cholesterol/levels-by-age#children
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11920-cholesterol-numbers-what-do-they-mean
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/315900
https://www.verywellhealth.com/cholesterol-levels-by-age-chart-5190176
https://medlineplus.gov/cholesterollevelswhatyouneedtoknow.html
https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/what-are-recommended-cholesterol-levels-by-age/
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000625