What if my total cholesterol is low

There is no consensus on how to define very low LDL cholesterol, but LDL would be considered very low if it is less than 40 milligrams per deciliter of blood. Although the risks are rare, very low levels of LDL cholesterol may be associated with an increased risk of:. The potential risk of lowering LDL cholesterol to very low levels has not been confirmed, and its association with certain health risks is still under debate.

Recent trials using novel treatments to lower cholesterol have reached extremely low cholesterol values with no increased risk for major side effects, but the follow-up was relatively short. In some cases it is not clear if low cholesterol causes the health problem or if it's the other way around. For example, people with depression may have low cholesterol levels, but it has not been proved that lowering cholesterol with statin therapy causes depression.

However, the benefits of lowering total and LDL cholesterol have been demonstrated extensively, particularly in individuals with heart disease or at high risk of heart disease or strokes.

If you're concerned about your cholesterol level, consult your doctor. If you're taking statins, don't stop without first consulting your doctor.

He or she can determine the cholesterol range most appropriate for you. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free, and stay up-to-date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID, plus expert advice on managing your health. Error Email field is required. Error Include a valid email address. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information and to understand which information is beneficial, we may combine your e-mail and website usage information with other information we have about you.

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A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. See more conditions. Request Appointment. Cholesterol level: Can it be too low?

Beyond that, the best way to get your cholesterol within the normal limits is to:. Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider's appointment to help you ask the right questions. While the current U. It is important to note that dietary cholesterol is derived only from animal sources, including meat, poultry, shellfish, dairy products, and egg yolks. To this end, cholesterol is not a "danger" in and of itself.

It is the type of cholesterol-containing foods we eat that influence our risk of CVD and other cardiovascular-related illnesses. Looking to start a diet to better manage your cholesterol? Changing lifelong eating habits can be scary at first, but our guide will make it easier.

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Obstet Med. Dysregulation of LDL receptor under the influence of inflammatory cytokines: a new pathway for foam cell formation. Kidney Int. Elmehdawi R. Hypolipidemia: a word of caution. Libyan J Med. Welty FK. Hypobetalipoproteinemia and abetalipoproteinemia. Health news headlines can be deceiving. Why is topical vitamin C important for skin health? Preventing preeclampsia may be as simple as taking an aspirin.

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Animal products raise cholesterol. Meat, dairy, eggs, fish, etc. AF Kay. Tony Haverstick. You might also be interested in….

Managing Your Cholesterol Managing Your Cholesterol offers up-to-date information to help you or a loved one keep cholesterol in check. Heart Health. Free Healthbeat Signup Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox! Sign Up.