When most people have a cholesterol test done, the first thing they usually want to know is whether their cholesterol is high or normal. But the results include much more than a single number. The test measures different types of cholesterol, and each one plays a different role in your heart health.

You may have heard people talk about “good” and “bad” cholesterol, but do you know what those terms mean? Understanding the difference can help you make sense of your test results.

Here’s a brief overview explaining the differences between good and bad cholesterol, as well as tips on how to keep your cholesterol in a healthy range.

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs to build cells, make hormones and help digest food. Your liver makes all the cholesterol your body needs, but cholesterol also comes from some animal-based foods. There are two types of cholesterol: LDL and HDL.

• LDL: LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein. This is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it carries cholesterol to your arteries, and when there’s too much in your blood, it can stick to artery walls and form plaque. Over time, plaque narrows arteries and makes it harder for blood to flow, raising your risk of heart attack and stroke. For most adults, an LDL level below 100 mg/dL is considered ideal. Doctors may recommend lower levels for people with known heart disease or a high risk of developing it.
• HDL: HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein. It’s known as “good” cholesterol because it acts like a cleanup crew. HDL carries extra cholesterol away from your arteries and back to the liver, where it can be removed from the body. A healthy HDL level is at least 40 mg/dL for men and at least 50 mg/dL for women.

Your lipid panel (cholesterol test) also includes:

• Total cholesterol: This combines your HDL, LDL and other blood fats. Around 150 mg/dL is considered optimal, while levels above 200 mg/dL may be high.
• Triglycerides: These are another type of fat in your blood. High triglycerides combined with high LDL or low HDL can further increase your risk of heart disease. A normal level is below 150 mg/dL.

Your doctor will look at all of these numbers together, along with factors like your age, blood pressure, diabetes, smoking history and family history before deciding whether treatment for high cholesterol is needed.

How to Improve Your Cholesterol

If you’re trying to lower cholesterol naturally or want to keep your numbers in a healthy range, these lifestyle habits may help:

• Eat more fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains and foods high in soluble fiber such as oats.
• Cut back on foods high in saturated fat, including fatty cuts of meat and full-fat dairy products.
• Avoid trans fats whenever possible.
• Enjoy healthy fats from foods like nuts, seeds, avocados and olive oil.
• Be physically active for at least 150 minutes each week.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Don’t smoke.

If these healthy habits aren’t enough, your doctor may recommend cholesterol-lowering medications.

High cholesterol usually has no symptoms, which is why regular blood tests are important. Knowing your numbers gives you a chance to protect your heart before problems develop, whether that’s making changes to your daily habits or taking medication to improve cholesterol levels if needed.

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