Alcohol consumption, liver disease, heart attacks, recent heavy physical exertion, and other normal factors have been shown to raise this value. Low values are probably not significant. Cholesterol is used to make essential body substances, such as cell walls and hormones. High levels of cholesterol have been associated with an increased risk for heart disease. Low levels of cholesterol are preferred.
Triglycerides are blood fats that are the usual storage form of lipids in the body.
This value can be dramatically affected by a recent meal or recent physical activity. Thus, an eight hour fast with no significant activity is required for accurate results. HDL Cholesterol is a High Density Lipoprotein, which is commonly referred to as the good cholesterol. HDL Cholesterol is a transport protein that carries cholesterol away from the artery walls for removal from the body. The higher the HDL value, the lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.