Total Cholesterol

What is Total Cholesterol?

Total cholesterol is the sum of all cholesterol fractions: LDL, HDL, VLDL, and other lipoproteins. Cholesterol is essential for cell membrane integrity, hormone synthesis (cortisol, testosterone, estrogen), bile acid production, and vitamin D synthesis. About 80% is produced by the liver; only 20% comes from diet.

What might a high or low Total Cholesterol mean?

While total cholesterol provides a rough cardiovascular risk estimate, it is less informative than its components. A person with high total cholesterol driven by high HDL has a very different risk profile than one with high LDL. The ratio of total cholesterol to HDL (TC/HDL) is more predictive than total cholesterol alone.

What is the typical reference range for Total Cholesterol?

The general-population reference range shown here is < 5.2 mmol/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.

What can affect Total Cholesterol?

It may be higher with: Saturated and trans fat intake, Genetic factors, Hypothyroidism, Liver disease (early stages), Nephrotic syndrome, Pregnancy, Anabolic steroids, Obesity. It may be lower with: Statin therapy, Plant-based diet, Exercise, Weight loss, Soluble fiber, Hyperthyroidism, Liver failure (late stages), Malnutrition.