LDL (Bad) Cholesterol Estimate
Estimate LDL (bad) cholesterol from total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides using the Friedewald formula. Also shows non-HDL cholesterol and your category at a glance.
Input
Using the Friedewald formula, this tool estimates LDL (bad) cholesterol from total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides. All values are assumed to come from a fasting blood draw.
mg/dl
mg/dl
mg/dl
Result
Estimated LDL (bad) cholesterol
116mg/dl
Category:Normal
Category
Normal
non-HDL cholesterol
140 mg/dl
Triglycerides (TG)
120 mg/dl
LDL cholesterol guide
| Category | LDL range (mg/dl) |
|---|---|
| Low LDL cholesterol | Under 70 |
| Normal (you) | 70 – under 120 |
| Borderline | 120 – under 140 |
| High LDL cholesterol | 140 and above |
How it works
- The calculation uses the Friedewald formula. LDL cholesterol (mg/dl) = total cholesterol − HDL cholesterol − triglycerides ÷ 5.
- Dividing triglycerides by 5 is based on the idea that this approximates the amount of cholesterol carried in very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL).
- The Friedewald formula is valid when triglycerides are below 400 mg/dl. At 400 mg/dl or higher the error grows and the formula no longer applies, so this tool shows a warning.
- non-HDL cholesterol (mg/dl) = total cholesterol − HDL cholesterol is also calculated. It is a useful indicator when triglycerides are high.
- Categories are shown based on common clinical guidelines, classifying results as normal, borderline, high LDL cholesterol, and so on. For an accurate assessment, use fasting blood values.
- This tool provides estimates based on a general formula and is not a diagnosis or medical advice. Always consult a doctor for any health-related decisions.
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LDL (Bad) Cholesterol Estimate