What are they?

Cholesterol and triglycerides tests measure the amount of fats in your blood. This includes "good" (HDL) and "bad" (LDL) cholesterol.

Why are these tests done?

These tests are done to check the level of certain fats in your blood. The results can help your doctor decide if you need treatment. For instance, you may need to change your diet or be more active.

How do you prepare for these tests?

If your doctor tells you to fast before your blood test, do not eat, chew, or drink anything other than small amounts of water for at least 12 hours before the test.

If you have diabetes and your doctor tells you to fast, do not eat, chew, or drink anything other than small amounts of water for at least 8 hours before your blood test.

Fasting for this type of blood test means not having anything to eat, chew, or drink other than small amounts of water. You can take any prescription medicines you need.

Be sure to tell your doctor about all the non-prescription and prescription medicines and natural health products you take. Some of these may affect the results of the tests.

How are these tests done?

A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.

What should your cholesterol levels be?

These are general guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your own target levels. Yours will depend on your age, sex, health, and risk for certain health problems. Your doctor may have you aim for these levels:

• Total cholesterol: Lower than 4.4 mmol/L
• LDL cholesterol: Lower than 2.8 mmol/L

The goal numbers for HDL and triglycerides can depend on your age and sex.

When should you call for help?

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if you have any problems.