LDL Cholesterol Calculator
Calculate your bad cholesterol levels and get personalized health insights
Input Your Cholesterol Values
mg/dL
mg/dL
mg/dL
mg/dL
Your Results
Calculated LDL Cholesterol
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mg/dL
Understanding Your Cholesterol
What is LDL Cholesterol?
LDL stands for Low-Density Lipoprotein, commonly called “bad cholesterol.” It carries cholesterol through your bloodstream and can build up in artery walls, increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke.
The higher your LDL level, the greater your risk of heart problems. This is why keeping LDL levels low is important for heart health.
HDL vs LDL: The Difference
- LDL (Bad): Builds up in arteries, increases heart disease risk
- HDL (Good): Removes cholesterol from arteries, protects your heart
- Triglycerides: Another type of fat in blood; high levels increase risk
Recommended LDL Levels
- 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 and above
How to Lower Your LDL
- Eat heart-healthy foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Limit saturated fats and trans fats
- Exercise regularly (150 minutes per week)
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Quit smoking if applicable
- Take medications as prescribed by your doctor
About Calculation Methods
Friedewald: Standard formula used since 1972. Works best when triglycerides are below 400 mg/dL.
Martin-Hopkins: Newer, more accurate method. Better for high triglyceride levels. Recommended by Johns Hopkins.
Sampson: Latest equation. Most accurate across all triglyceride levels.
When to Get Tested
- Adults age 20 and older: Every 4-6 years
- If you have risk factors: More frequently
- If you’re on cholesterol medication: Annually
- After starting a new treatment: 4-12 weeks