Cholesterol level: Can it be too low?

Can your cholesterol level be too low?

- Warren / Illinois

Mayo Clinic cardiologist Gerald Gau, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

A high blood cholesterol level puts you at increased risk of coronary artery disease. So lower is usually better — but not always.

Some research suggests that very low cholesterol levels may be associated with an increased risk of death in people with cancer. However, there is no evidence that a low cholesterol level causes cancer. Low cholesterol levels may also be associated with depression and anxiety. Some scientists believe that very low cholesterol may reduce serotonin levels in the brain.

So, how low is "too low"? It depends on the individual. A newborn has a low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol level of 30 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and develops normally at this level. People who eat low-fat, low-cholesterol diets may have an LDL cholesterol level between 40 and 50 mg/dL and a total cholesterol level of 100 mg/dL — and they do just fine.

In general, you want your total cholesterol level to be less than 200 mg/dL and your LDL cholesterol level to be below 100 mg/dL. For individuals at very high risk of heart disease, the National Cholesterol Education Program recommends an LDL cholesterol level of about 70 mg/dL and a total cholesterol level between 140 and 150 mg/dL. Some research suggests that LDL cholesterol levels between 60 and 70 mg/dL are not only safe but can help slow or even reverse coronary artery disease.

If you have questions about your cholesterol levels, consult your doctor. He or she can explain what cholesterol levels are appropriate in your specific situation.