Betty,

A rise in total cholesterol from 230 to 242 could be only a statistical
anomaly.  For all practical purposes, your total cholesterol level remains
unchanged.

To fully access your situation, we need to know more specific information.
 What was your LDL level in May?  Has there been a significant change?  What
are your triglyceride levels?  What is your HDL?  Have these readings changed
to any extent?

Remember, the most reliable indicator of heart disease risk is the ratio of
triglycerides to HDL, not total cholesterol.  This ratio should be <2:1.  If
the ratio is higher, it is a marker for insulin resistance.  If this is the
case, you should lower your carb intake, especially fruits and fruitjuices.
  In almost all cases, reduction in carb intake will lower triglceride
levels.  Your trouble with weight loss may be connected with an underlying
insulin resistance problem.

You may also need to consider taking supplements to help correct your blood
lipid profile.  Additional nutrients are necessary to overcome your metablic
problem.  For correcting cholesterol problems, consider pantethine, essential
oils, and folic acid.

Ed Campbell, DC,CSCS