Cholesterol Test

GetTested’s Cholesterol Test Kit

Monitoring cholesterol levels, especially the balance between LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein), is crucial for your health. Many people, especially men over 35 and women over 45, have high cholesterol without knowing it. GetTested’s home cholesterol test kit offers an easy way to gain insights into your cholesterol levels and the LDL-HDL balance.

About Cholesterol

Your body needs cholesterol to build cells, hormones, vitamins, and to digest food. The liver naturally produces it, and you can also absorb it from food. Cholesterol forms part of our cell walls, steroid hormones, and bile acid. It's vital for the brain's cells and cellular division. When cholesterol travels through the blood, it does so in lipoproteins, the fat transport particles. High levels of LDL, the 'bad' cholesterol, can lead to health issues like high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases by forming plaque in the arteries. This can cause atherosclerosis, potentially leading to strokes or heart attacks.

The Roles of HDL and LDL Cholesterol

Cholesterol needs carrier proteins called lipoproteins to travel in the blood. LDL carries cholesterol to cells, while HDL transports it from tissues back to the liver. High HDL levels can protect against strokes and heart attacks, while high LDL levels contribute to the buildup of artery-blocking plaque, increasing the risk of heart issues.

The Importance of Cholesterol Balance

The focus is now more on the balance between HDL and LDL rather than just labeling cholesterol in foods as 'good' or 'bad'. Analyzing cholesterol means measuring total cholesterol, both HDL and LDL. High LDL levels, especially compared to HDL, increase the risk of heart and vascular diseases. LDL can become sticky, form plaque in blood vessels, and cause inflammation leading to atherosclerosis.

Normal Cholesterol Levels

A healthy adult’s HDL cholesterol range is 35 to 65 mg/dL for men and 35 to 80 mg/dL for women. A cholesterol ratio below 5:1 is good, and below 3.5:1 is very good.

Triglycerides and Cholesterol

Triglycerides, the most common type of body fat, store unused calories. High triglyceride levels, along with high LDL or low HDL, can lead to plaque buildup in arteries.

Why Test for Cholesterol?

Testing is vital because high cholesterol can cause strokes and heart attacks. Most people with high cholesterol don’t show symptoms, so testing is the only way to know your levels.

Not Sure About the Test?

If you’re unsure whether this test is right for you, contact our customer support team. We are here to help you choose the best tests for your health goals. Reach us through our contact page or use our live chat for immediate assistance.