Cholesterol levels chart: total, LDL, HDL and triglycerides
Medically reviewed by Dr. N. S. Santosh Varma, MBBS, FIM, FIDM, FICCM · Reg. APMC/FMR 112686 · Reviewed October 2026
For adults, total cholesterol below 200 mg/dL is generally desirable, LDL below 100 mg/dL is optimal, HDL of 60 mg/dL or more is protective (below 40 in men or 50 in women is low), and triglycerides below 150 mg/dL are normal. Your doctor may set lower LDL targets if you have diabetes or heart disease.
Cholesterol chart (adults, mg/dL)
| Measure | Desirable | Borderline | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total cholesterol | Below 200 | 200 – 239 | 240 and above |
| LDL ('bad') | Below 100 (optimal) | 130 – 159 | 160 and above |
| HDL ('good') | 60 and above | 40 – 59 | Below 40 (men) / 50 (women) is low |
| Triglycerides | Below 150 | 150 – 199 | 200 and above |
What raises cholesterol
- Diet high in fried and processed food
- Low physical activity and excess weight
- Smoking and alcohol
- Diabetes and thyroid problems
- Family history (some families have very high LDL)
How to check it
Cholesterol is measured with a lipid profile, usually after 10 to 12 hours of fasting. See our guide to fasting before a blood test.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a normal cholesterol level?
Total cholesterol below 200 mg/dL is generally desirable for adults, with LDL below 100 mg/dL and HDL of 60 mg/dL or more.
Is 220 cholesterol high?
200 to 239 mg/dL is commonly classed as borderline high. Your doctor looks at LDL, HDL, triglycerides and other risks together.
Can cholesterol be high without symptoms?
Yes. High cholesterol usually causes no symptoms, which is why regular lipid tests are recommended.
Related
Medically reviewed by Dr. N. S. Santosh Varma (MBBS, FIM, FIDM, FICCM; APMC/FMR 112686). Prepared by the YIRA health team · Last updated 1 October 2026. This page is general health information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Reference ranges differ between labs; always discuss your results with a doctor. In an emergency, call 108 or go to the nearest hospital.