Cholesterol levels are significantly associated with the risk of developing Heart disease currently or in the future. An excess amount of "bad" cholesterol in the body contributes to the buildup of plaque along the arteries which ultimately limits optimal flow of blood to the heart. Cholesterol testing is frequently done as part of a preventative physical examination and the blood results provide vital information regarding a patient's low density lipoprotein level or LDL, and their high density lipoprotein or HDL. The LDL reading is considered "bad" cholesterol with higher levels indicating increased risk of heart disease while HDL levels reflect "good" cholesterol with higher levels providing greater health benefits. Many factors impact cholesterol levels including diet, exercise, Diabetes, genetics and age. Saturated fat is recognized for contributing to an increased cholesterol level whereas consistently engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily helps lower LDL levels and raise HDL cholesterol. In preparation for a lipid profile a patient should aim to fast for nine to 12 hours prior to the test in order for results to be the most accurate. Medical professionals recommend keeping overall cholesterol readings at 200 or below which accounts for LDL and HDL cholesterol as well as additional lipids measurable in the blood. A level of 240 and above indicates high blood cholesterol and double the risk of coronary disease. Cholesterol is measured as milligrams (mg) per deciliter (dL) in the blood. Levels of LDL cholesterol are optimal for health when under 100, although readings up to 129 are considered lower risk of developing complications. LDL levels 130 and above are of concern to primary care physicians with any LDL cholesterol level reported over 190 considered very high. Conversely, higher HDL levels are desirable with numbers greater than 60 associated with the lowest risk of heart disease and readings below 40 for males and 50 for females indicating a greater risk of developing health problems. Cholesterol is manageable through lifestyle and dietary changes for many although patients with a hereditary predisposition to unhealthy cholesterol levels may need to incorporate drug therapy in order to effectively treat the condition.