Cholesterol Calculator
Enter your lipid panel values to estimate LDL cholesterol and review common interpretation ranges.
Formula used: Friedewald equation (LDL = Total Cholesterol − HDL − Triglycerides/5 in mg/dL). This estimate becomes less reliable when triglycerides are very high.
How this cholesterol calculator works
This tool helps you estimate key lipid markers from a standard blood test. If you provide total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides, the calculator estimates LDL cholesterol and also reports non-HDL cholesterol and your total/HDL ratio.
These numbers are commonly used by clinicians to evaluate cardiovascular risk alongside age, blood pressure, diabetes status, smoking history, family history, and other factors.
What the results mean
1) LDL cholesterol (estimated)
LDL is often called “bad cholesterol” because elevated levels are linked with plaque buildup in arteries.
- Optimal: less than 100 mg/dL
- Near optimal: 100–129 mg/dL
- Borderline high: 130–159 mg/dL
- High: 160–189 mg/dL
- Very high: 190+ mg/dL
2) HDL cholesterol
HDL is often called “good cholesterol.” Higher HDL is generally protective.
- Low: under 40 mg/dL (men), under 50 mg/dL (women)
- Protective: 60 mg/dL or higher
3) Triglycerides
Triglycerides are another type of blood fat; very high values may increase risk for both heart disease and pancreatitis.
- Normal: less than 150 mg/dL
- Borderline high: 150–199 mg/dL
- High: 200–499 mg/dL
- Very high: 500+ mg/dL
4) Non-HDL and total/HDL ratio
Non-HDL cholesterol is total cholesterol minus HDL and can be a useful target, especially when triglycerides are elevated. The total/HDL ratio offers another quick perspective on lipid balance.
Important limitations of calculated LDL
The LDL value shown here is an estimate, not a direct lab measurement. Most formulas are less accurate when triglycerides are high (especially above 400 mg/dL), during non-fasting tests in some cases, or in certain metabolic conditions. Your clinician may order a direct LDL or ApoB test when needed.
How to improve cholesterol naturally
- Emphasize vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and fish.
- Reduce trans fats and limit saturated fats from processed and fried foods.
- Increase soluble fiber (oats, beans, psyllium, flax, chia).
- Exercise regularly: at least 150 minutes/week of moderate activity.
- Maintain a healthy weight and waist circumference.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
- Prioritize sleep and stress management.
When to talk to your doctor
Seek medical guidance if your LDL is high, triglycerides are elevated, you have diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, a strong family history of early heart disease, or prior cardiovascular events. Treatment can include lifestyle changes, medication, or both.
Medical disclaimer: This calculator is for educational use only and does not diagnose disease or replace professional medical advice.