13. In general, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
recommends that adults get their cholesterol checked every five
years, with an eye toward an ideal LDL cholesterol lower than 100
mg/dL and an HDL cholesterol higher than 60 mg/dL. The American
Heart Association says people looking to lower their bad cholesterol
should limit their sodium and sugar intake, and reduce the amount of
fatty and red meats, fried foods and baked goods they consume.