Cholesterol Ratio Calculator
Assess your cardiovascular risk based on cholesterol levels
Important: This calculator provides estimates based on standard cholesterol values. For accurate interpretation of your results, please consult with your healthcare provider.
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Understanding Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood that your body needs to build healthy cells. However, high levels of cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease. Your cholesterol numbers include several components measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL):
Cholesterol Components
Total Cholesterol
The total amount of cholesterol in your blood, including HDL, LDL, and VLDL cholesterol.
Borderline high: 200-239 mg/dL
High: ≥240 mg/dL
HDL (Good Cholesterol)
Helps remove LDL cholesterol from arteries. Higher numbers are better.
Women: ≥50 mg/dL
Optimal: ≥60 mg/dL
LDL (Bad Cholesterol)
Builds up in arteries, increasing heart disease risk. Lower numbers are better.
Near optimal: 100-129 mg/dL
Borderline high: 130-159 mg/dL
High: 160-189 mg/dL
Very high: ≥190 mg/dL
Triglycerides
A type of fat in blood that can increase heart disease risk at high levels.
Borderline high: 150-199 mg/dL
High: 200-499 mg/dL
Very high: ≥500 mg/dL
Understanding Cholesterol Ratios
Doctors often look at cholesterol ratios to better assess cardiovascular risk:
| Ratio | Calculation | Ideal Value | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total:HDL | Total ÷ HDL | Below 5:1 (Optimal: 3.5:1) | Best overall predictor of heart disease risk |
| LDL:HDL | LDL ÷ HDL | Below 3:1 (Optimal: 2:1) | Measures balance between good and bad cholesterol |
| Triglycerides:HDL | Triglycerides ÷ HDL | Below 2:1 | Indicates insulin resistance when high |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cholesterol number is most important?
While all cholesterol numbers matter, many experts consider the Total Cholesterol to HDL ratio the most significant predictor of heart disease risk. However, extremely high LDL levels (≥190 mg/dL) require treatment regardless of other numbers.
How can I improve my cholesterol ratios?
You can improve ratios by: 1) Increasing HDL through exercise and healthy fats, 2) Decreasing LDL through reduced saturated fats and increased fiber, 3) Lowering triglycerides by reducing sugar and refined carbs, and 4) Maintaining a healthy weight.
How often should I get my cholesterol checked?
Whenever requested by your doctor or following your country's health guidelines. Those with risk factors (family history, high cholesterol, diabetes) should test annually. People on cholesterol medication may need testing every 3-6 months initially.
Can I have good total cholesterol but bad ratios?
Yes. Someone with total cholesterol of 180 mg/dL might have HDL of 30 mg/dL (ratio of 6:1 - poor) while another with 220 mg/dL might have HDL of 80 mg/dL (ratio of 2.75:1 - excellent). Ratios provide context to raw numbers.
Are cholesterol ratio goals different for women?
Women typically have higher HDL levels, so their ratios are often better than men's at the same total cholesterol. However, post-menopausal women's LDL often rises, making ratios equally important for both genders.