LDL

• LDL is the "bad" type of cholesterol because it sticks to the insides of your arteries, which can form clots and increase your chances of developing heart disease.
  
  

HDL

• HDL has the opposite effect of LDL and is considered "good" because it carries bad cholesterol away from your arteries. HDL can actually help reduce your risk of developing heart disease.
  
  

Optimal Cholesterol Levels

• In most cases, an optimal LDL cholesterol level is below 100 mg/dL, according to the American Heart Association. For adults who have heart disease or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend optimal LDL levels below 70 mg/dL. Optimal levels of HDL are above 60 mg/dL, and optimal total cholesterol levels are below 200 mg/dL.
  
  

Lower Cholesterol with Diet

• According to the Mayo Clinic, a diet high in fiber and other cholesterol-lowering foods may help lower cholesterol as much as statin medications for many people. Eat healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from foods like olive oil, fish and nuts, and avoid saturated and trans fats in foods like red meat, butter and fast food.
  
  

Lower Cholesterol with Exercise

• Getting regular exercise can also help lower a high cholesterol number. Aim for 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day once you have your doctor's approval.