All the cholesterol in your body is not bad. In fact, cholesterol serves the important function of helping your body produce cell membranes, vitamin D, and sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
Having healthy cholesterol levels means having higher levels of what is known as “good” or high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and lower levels of “bad” or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. A total cholesterol level of less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) is considered normal, while 200 to 239 mg/dL is thought to be borderline high, and 240 mg/dL or higher is considered high cholesterol, per UpToDate. Both your diet and your liver contribute toward the total cholesterol in your blood. As for LDL, less than 100 mg/dL is considered optimal, while 190 mg/dL and above is considered very high. With HDL, the desirable amount to have is 60 mg/dL or above.
Consuming heart-healthy foods like omega-3 fatty acids and soluble fiber, eliminating or reducing saturated and trans fat content, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption are all considered to be the best ways to lower high cholesterol without medication. However, sometimes, medications are part of the treatment plan. Speaking of medications, there is some science related to a man’s sex life and statin consumption. Statins are one of the most commonly prescribed cholesterol medications.
