What is a lipid profile?
A lipid profile measures different types of fats (lipids) in your blood. These fats affect your risk of heart attack and stroke. The test requires 9–12 hours of fasting before the blood draw. In India, heart disease is the leading cause of death, and abnormal lipid profiles are a major contributing factor — even in young adults and those who appear outwardly healthy.
Lipid Profile Normal Range Chart
| Test | Desirable | Borderline High | High Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Cholesterol | Below 200 mg/dL | 200–239 mg/dL | 240+ mg/dL |
| LDL (Bad Cholesterol) | Below 100 mg/dL | 130–159 mg/dL | 160+ mg/dL |
| HDL (Good Cholesterol) — Men | Above 40 mg/dL | — | Below 40 mg/dL |
| HDL (Good Cholesterol) — Women | Above 50 mg/dL | — | Below 50 mg/dL |
| Triglycerides | Below 150 mg/dL | 150–199 mg/dL | 200+ mg/dL |
| VLDL | Below 30 mg/dL | — | 30+ mg/dL |
What does high LDL mean?
HIGH LDL Above 130 mg/dL
LDL is called "bad" cholesterol because it deposits in artery walls forming plaques that can block blood flow, causing heart attack or stroke. High LDL from diet (saturated fats, fried foods, ghee in excess), genetics, diabetes or hypothyroidism. Reducing refined carbs, exercising, and statins (medication) effectively lower LDL.
What does low HDL mean?
LOW HDL Below 40 (men) / 50 (women) mg/dL
HDL is "good" cholesterol — it removes LDL from arteries. Low HDL increases heart disease risk even if total cholesterol is normal. Low HDL is caused by smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, diabetes and refined carbohydrate diets. Exercise is the best proven way to raise HDL naturally.
What do high triglycerides mean?
HIGH Triglycerides above 150 mg/dL
High triglycerides (hypertriglyceridaemia) are strongly linked to sugar and refined carbohydrate intake, alcohol, diabetes and obesity. In India, high triglycerides are extremely common due to high-rice and high-sugar diets. Very high triglycerides (above 500 mg/dL) can cause pancreatitis — a serious emergency.
How to improve your lipid profile
- Replace refined oils with cold-pressed oils in moderation
- Reduce white rice, maida and sugar — these raise triglycerides
- Walk or exercise 30–45 minutes daily — raises HDL
- Eat more fibre — vegetables, oats, flaxseeds
- Quit smoking — dramatically lowers HDL
- Take statin medication if prescribed — highly effective and safe