LDL Calculator

Calculate your LDL cholesterol using the Friedewald equation. Enter your total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides (all in mg/dL) to get your estimated LDL-C value along with a risk category interpretation. All three values come from a standard lipid panel blood test.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any health-related decisions.

mg/dL

Total cholesterol from your lipid panel blood test.

mg/dL

High-density lipoprotein — the 'good' cholesterol.

mg/dL

Must be below 400 mg/dL for the Friedewald equation to be valid.

Results

Estimated LDL Cholesterol

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LDL Category

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Estimated VLDL

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Non-HDL Cholesterol

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is LDL cholesterol calculated using the Friedewald equation?

The Friedewald equation estimates LDL as: LDL = Total Cholesterol − HDL − (Triglycerides ÷ 5). The triglycerides ÷ 5 portion estimates VLDL cholesterol. This formula was developed in 1972 and is the most widely used method in clinical labs worldwide.

What is a normal LDL cholesterol level?

According to standard guidelines: below 100 mg/dL is optimal, 100–129 mg/dL is near optimal, 130–159 mg/dL is borderline high, 160–189 mg/dL is high, and 190 mg/dL or above is very high. Your target LDL may be lower (e.g. below 70 mg/dL) if you have heart disease or diabetes — always consult your doctor.

How do I calculate LDL with total cholesterol 230, HDL 47, and triglycerides 123?

Using the Friedewald equation: LDL = 230 − 47 − (123 ÷ 5) = 230 − 47 − 24.6 = 158.4 mg/dL. This falls in the 'borderline high' category and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

How do I calculate total cholesterol from LDL and HDL?

Total cholesterol = LDL + HDL + VLDL (where VLDL ≈ Triglycerides ÷ 5). So if you know your LDL, HDL, and triglycerides, you can rearrange the formula: TC = LDL + HDL + (TG ÷ 5).

Are there limitations to the Friedewald equation?

Yes. The Friedewald equation is considered inaccurate when triglycerides exceed 400 mg/dL, in patients with type III hyperlipoproteinemia, or when chylomicrons are present (e.g. non-fasting samples). In these cases, direct LDL measurement is recommended. This calculator will flag values above 400 mg/dL.

How do I lower my LDL below 70 mg/dL?

Achieving LDL below 70 mg/dL typically requires a combination of dietary changes (reducing saturated and trans fats), regular aerobic exercise, and often statin medications. For very high-risk patients, additional therapies like PCSK9 inhibitors or ezetimibe may be prescribed by a cardiologist.

What is the difference between LDL and non-HDL cholesterol?

Non-HDL cholesterol includes all cholesterol carried by atherogenic (artery-clogging) particles — LDL, VLDL, IDL, and lipoprotein(a). It is calculated as Total Cholesterol − HDL. Non-HDL is considered a better predictor of cardiovascular risk than LDL alone, and its optimal level is generally 30 mg/dL higher than the target LDL.

Do I need to fast before a cholesterol test for this calculation to be valid?

Fasting (typically 9–12 hours) is traditionally recommended before a lipid panel because eating raises triglyceride levels, which affects the Friedewald LDL estimate. Many labs now perform non-fasting lipid panels, but the Friedewald formula is most accurate on fasting samples with triglycerides below 400 mg/dL.