Cholesterol 101: Understanding the Importance of Your Numbers  

December 09, 2025 | Tags: Wellness

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You may hear a family member talking about having high cholesterol after a recent doctor’s visit. Or see a recipe for a dish low in cholesterol. But what exactly is cholesterol? And how does it play a role in your continued health and wellness? 

What is cholesterol? 

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that’s naturally produced by your liver. It can also be found in foods you eat, like meat, eggs, cheese and milk. Your body uses cholesterol to make hormones and help digest food, and is essential to being healthy.  

However, too much cholesterol can cause health issues. Excessive cholesterol buildup, called plaque, can occur in your arteries, causing them to harden and narrow. This puts you at higher risk for stroke, heart disease and heart attacks.  

LDL and HDL: What do they mean? 

You may recognize these letters from an annual wellness visit with your primary care provider (PCP) or seeing them when checking blood test results. Your PCP will check for lipoproteins, a mix of fat and proteins, in your blood that are used to monitor cholesterol levels. LDL and HDL are two of the most common types of lipoproteins: 

• LDL (low-density lipoprotein): Sometimes called “bad” cholesterol. High LDL levels contribute to plaque build-up in your arteries, which can be unhealthy and sometimes dangerous. The lower your LDL levels, the better. 
• HDL (high-density lipoprotein): Sometimes called “good” cholesterol. HDL “picks up” LDL cholesterol from your arteries and takes it back to your liver. HDL can lower risks associated with high cholesterol levels.  

Triglycerides, a type of fat that stores excess energy, can also contribute to high cholesterol levels. Some blood tests will show your “total” cholesterol. This “total” is the combination of your LDL, HDL and triglycerides.  

Knowing healthy and unhealthy cholesterol numbers 

Your cholesterol levels provide information into your health. Understanding your numbers can help you take steps toward maintaining a healthy heart. Below are the normal ranges for cholesterol, according to Cleveland Clinic: 

Every person is different. What may be considered “a normal range for adults” may not be “normal” for you. This is why it’s important to have a PCP that is familiar with your unique health needs. 

How can I prevent or lower high cholesterol levels?  

Cholesterol numbers can vary for many different reasons. There are several factors that can affect your LDL levels, such as: 

• Family history  
• Unhealthy nutrition habits  
• Lack of physical activity  
• Being overweight  
• Tobacco use  

The good news is that there are ways to help lower your LDL. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend the following positive lifestyle habits and prevention steps: 

• Encourage healthy eating: Certain foods can contribute to high cholesterol levels. Limit foods high in saturated and trans fats, sodium and added sugars. Choose options like lean meats, whole grains and fruits and vegetables. Foods naturally high in soluble fiber, like beans, and omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, walnuts and flaxseed are also beneficial. 
• Maintain a healthy weight: Too much body fat can affect how your body uses and removes LDL cholesterol. Talk to your PCP about what a healthy weight looks like for you and what you can do to reach or maintain it.  
• Be physically active: Regular exercise not only helps weight management but also improves cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Choose exercises that best suit you, like yoga or swimming. Park further away to increase your steps or take the stairs over the elevator. Aways check with your PCP before starting an exercise routine. 
• Try to quit smoking: Smoking damages your blood vessels. This causes your arteries to harden faster, increasing your risk for heart disease. Medical Mutual understands that smoking is an addictive habit that can be hard to break. Check out the tobacco cessation resources and programs we offer under the Healthy Living tab in the My Health Plan portal.
• Avoid excessive alcohol: Too much alcohol can increase cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Drink in moderation. Women should have no more than one drink per day. Men should have no more than two.  

How often should you check your cholesterol?  

Recommended screenings for high cholesterol differ based on age and sex: 

If you’ve had a heart attack or stroke, you may need more frequent screenings. Talk to your PCP about what’s right for you. If you don’t have a PCP, Medical Mutual can help. Use our Find a Provider tool on My Health Plan to find one in your plan’s network or call the Customer Care number listed on your member ID card.