Enter your Total Cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol, and Triglycerides into the LDL Cholesterol Calculator to find your estimated LDL level using the Friedewald equation, plus your LDL Category and an overview of your Cardiovascular Risk.
LDL Cholesterol
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LDL Category
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Cardiovascular Risk
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LDL cholesterol is calculated using the Friedewald equation: LDL = Total Cholesterol - HDL - (Triglycerides ÷ 5). This formula estimates LDL-C levels when triglycerides are below 400 mg/dL.
Optimal LDL is less than 100 mg/dL. Near optimal is 100-129 mg/dL, borderline high is 130-159 mg/dL, high is 160-189 mg/dL, and very high is 190 mg/dL or above.
Using the Friedewald equation: LDL = 230 - 47 - (123 ÷ 5) = 230 - 47 - 24.6 = 158.4 mg/dL. This would be classified as borderline high LDL cholesterol.
Yes, the Friedewald equation is less accurate when triglycerides exceed 400 mg/dL, in non-fasting samples, or in patients with certain genetic lipid disorders. Direct LDL measurement may be needed in these cases.
To lower LDL cholesterol, follow a heart-healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats, exercise regularly, maintain healthy weight, and consider medication if prescribed by your doctor. Statins are commonly used for significant LDL reduction.
LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is 'bad' cholesterol that can build up in arteries, while HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is 'good' cholesterol that helps remove cholesterol from arteries and transport it to the liver for disposal.
Adults should have cholesterol checked every 4-6 years starting at age 20, or more frequently if at high risk. Those with heart disease, diabetes, or family history may need more frequent monitoring as recommended by their healthcare provider.