LDL Cholesterol Test Kits at Home
Being able to check your cholesterol levels at home is a big plus for most people who are worried about their cholesterol especially for those who are very susceptible to have higher than normal levels or for those who are at risk for developing heart diseases. Although the results you might get from your home kit may not be as accurate as having a medical check-up, it's still helpful to have your cholesterol checked at home.
Your HDL cholesterol is considered the "good" cholesterol which is why high values of this cholesterol is a good sign. High levels of HDL cholesterol would lessen your risk for heart ailments. Your HDL cholesterol levels should be above 40 mg/dL and results lower than this would increase your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
LDL cholesterol is the "bad" cholesterol in your body. This cholesterol can lead to build-up of plaques in your arterial walls which would impede the circulation of blood in your body and would result to blood clots. A blood clot is one of the primary reasons for heart attacks and stroke.
Triglycerides are another type of fat found in the body. Elevated triglyceride levels are usually found in people who smoke, are overweight, inactive, drink too much alcohol, and eat lots of carbohydrates.
Home cholesterol kits are now available in pharmacies in your neighborhood. Before purchasing a kit, you need to remember that there are different kinds of kits available and that each kit measures different levels like your total cholesterol, low- density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides, and cholesterol. Some kits only measure a certain level while others may measure your HDL, LDL, and triglycerides altogether. When you use a home cholesterol test kit, you need to fast for at least nine to 12 hours before taking the test. Taking the test without fasting would lead to inaccurate results.
You need to consult your physician before using the test so that he might be able to give you some instructions on how to use the test appropriately to get more accurate results. It is very important that you choose the right type of kit according to what kind of test you need. Test kits that can monitor all of the three levels are a bit expensive but they are able to give you accurate information. All of these kits are fast and easy to use but always make sure that you follow the proper steps while taking the test.