 Measuring Your Blood Cholesterol Everyone age 20 and older should have their blood cholesterol measured at least once every 5 years. It is best to have a blood test called a "lipoprotein profile" to find out your cholesterol numbers. This blood test is done after a 9-12 hour fast and gives information about your: If it is not possible to have a lipoprotein profile done, knowing your total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol can give you a general idea about your cholesterol levels. If your total cholesterol is 200 mg/dL or more, or if your HDL is less than 40 mg/dL, you will need to have a fasting lipoprotein profile done. If you do not know your LDL level, you should have it measured. If it does not need specific treatment, you can still take the following steps to keep your cholesterol low and reduce your risk for heart disease:
The Heart Healthy Diet is an eating pattern the whole family can follow, including children from the age of about 2-4 onward. NOTE: Children younger than 2 years old need more fat in their diet to provide enough calories and should not follow a low saturated fat, low cholesterol diet.
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Your LDL will guide you and your doctor in setting your specific treatment
plan.