A cholesterol panel, or lipid panel, is a set of blood tests that shows the amount and type of cholesterol and other fats in the blood. This allows patients and their physicians to judge the patients’ risk of heart and blood vessel disease and stroke, and to come up with a plan to lower their risk if needed.
What are the normal and abnormal values for a cholesterol panel?
| Normal | Slightly High | High | |
| Total cholesterol | Less than 200 mg/dL | 200 to 239 mg/dL | 240 mg/dL or over |
| LDL cholesterol | Less than 100 mg/dL | ||
| HDL cholesterol | Over 39 mg/dL | ||
| Triglycerides | Less than 150 mg/dL |
When total cholesterol or LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol are too high, a low fat, low meat diet with plenty of healthy fruits and veggies, plus normalizing weight, is recommended. Physical activity is good for raising HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol—also known as the good cholesterol. High fiber foods such as flax, legumes, and oats are good for bringing down triglyceride levels.
How can I order a cholesterol panel lab test?
QuickMD now lets you order your own cholesterol panel test online without a doctor’s visit. One of the QuickMD doctors will contact you with the results and, if the test results are abnormal, discuss the next steps with you. This test can be done at any LabCorp near you.