Understanding Blood Tests - Cholesterol, Triglycerides and More
Blood tests provide important information about your overall health. Here is a guide to understanding common blood test results for cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar, thyroid, liver and more.
Table of Contents
- Total Cholesterol
- LDL Cholesterol
- HDL Cholesterol
- Triglycerides
- Blood Glucose
- Hemoglobin A1C
- Thyroid Tests
- Liver Function
- Kidney Tests
- Complete Blood Count
- C-Reactive Protein
Total Cholesterol
Measures total cholesterol from LDL, HDL and other particles. Desirable levels are under 200 mg/dL borderline is 200-239 mg/dL and high is 240 mg/dL and above.
LDL Cholesterol
“Bad” cholesterol that builds up in arteries. Optimal is under 100 mg/dL, near optimal is 100-129 mg/dL, borderline is 130-159 mg/dL, high is 160-189 mg/dL and very high is 190 mg/dL and above.
HDL Cholesterol
“Good” cholesterol that removes LDL buildup. Low is under 40 mg/dL for men and under 50 mg/dL for women. High levels over 60 mg/dL are desirable.
Triglycerides
A type of fat that increases heart disease risk at high levels. Normal is under 150 mg/dL, borderline high is 150-199 mg/dL, high is 200-499 mg/dL and very high over 500 mg/dL.
Blood Glucose
Measures blood sugar levels. Normal fasting level is under 100 mg/dL. Diabetes is diagnosed when fasting blood glucose is 126 mg/dL or higher on two tests.
Hemoglobin A1C
Provides an average blood sugar reading over several months. Normal is under 5.7%, prediabetes is 5.7-6.4% and diabetes is 6.5% or above.
Thyroid Tests
TSH, T3 and T4 levels help diagnose thyroid disorders. Normal TSH is around 1 mIU/L. Elevated TSH indicates hypothyroidism and low TSH indicates hyperthyroid.
Liver Function
Elevated liver enzymes like AST and ALT can signal liver disease. Normal ranges are 10-40 U/L for AST and 7-56 U/L for ALT.
Kidney Tests
BUN and creatinine evaluate kidney function. Normal levels are 6-20 mg/dL for BUN and 0.6–1.2 mg/dL for creatinine. Higher levels indicate impaired kidney function.
Complete Blood Count
Measures levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, hemoglobin and platelets. Results help diagnose infections, anemia, clotting issues and other conditions.
C-Reactive Protein
CRP over 3.0 mg/L indicates inflammation and infection in the body. Ideal is under 1.0 mg/L with average risk 1.0-3.0 mg/L.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal A1C for a non-diabetic?Less than 5.7% is considered normal. 5.7-6.4% indicates prediabetes.
How can I lower my triglycerides quickly?Reduce sugar and refined carbs, exercise more, lose weight, and limit alcohol.
What vitamin helps lower cholesterol?B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, and fish oil may help lower LDL and raise HDL cholesterol.
What foods help clean your arteries?Fatty fish, avocado, nuts, seeds, beans, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy oils like olive oil.
What are the most common blood tests?Complete blood count, cholesterol, triglycerides, blood glucose, electrolytes, liver and kidney function, thyroid hormones, and vitamin levels.
Conclusion
Blood tests provide crucial information about heart health, blood sugar, hormones, kidney function, infections and nutrient status. Speak with your doctor to understand your results and make any needed nutrition and lifestyle changes.
