LDL, or “bad cholesterol,” can lead to heart problems if too high. Use our free LDL calculator for quick, accurate results and learn how it’s measured.
LDL Calculator
- Friedewald WT, Levy RI, Fredrickson DS. Estimation of LDL-C without preparative ultracentrifuge. Clin Chem. 1972;18(6):499–502. PubMed | Archived Full Text
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). ATP III Cholesterol Guidelines – Quick Desk Reference. NHLBI
- Martin SS, et al. Limitations of the Friedewald formula for estimating LDL-C. Clin Chem. 2005;51(1):219–220. PubMed
- Conversion factors: 1 mmol/L cholesterol ≈ 38.67 mg/dL; 1 mmol/L triglycerides ≈ 88.57 mg/dL (standard clinical chemistry references, e.g., Tietz Textbook of Clinical Chemistry).
Explore more heart calculators:
What is LDL Cholesterol?
LDL is a type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol in your blood. While your body needs cholesterol to function, too much LDL can build up in your arteries, increasing your risk of:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Peripheral artery disease
This makes LDL a key focus in routine lipid panels and cardiovascular risk assessments.
What is an LDL Calculation?
LDL calculation refers to the process of estimating LDL cholesterol based on other lipid values. The Friedewald formula is most commonly used:
Friedewald formula
- If values are in mg/dL
- LDL = Total Cholesterol − HDL − (Triglycerides ÷ 5)
- If values are in mmol/L
- LDL=TC−HDL−0.2×TG
This method is accurate for triglyceride levels under 400 mg/dL and is widely used in clinical practice.
Interpretation
LDL Levels (mg/dL)
- <100 → Considered optimal
- 100–129 → Near optimal or slightly above
- 130–159 → Borderline high
- 160–189 → High
- ≥190 → Very high
(Adapted from ATP III guidelines)
LDL Target Goals
- Very high risk → <70 mg/dL (optional, costly, limited extra benefit)
- High risk → <100 mg/dL
- Moderate risk → <130 mg/dL
- Low risk → <160 mg/dL
How to Use an LDL Calculator?
Our LDL calculator is based on the Friedewald formula and provides quick and reliable LDL estimates. Just input three values from your blood test:
- Once you have your lipid profile results, note the unit system used (mg/dL or mmol/L).
- Enter your Total Cholesterol (TC) value.
- Add your Triglycerides (TG) level.
- Provide your HDL cholesterol value.
- The calculator will then display your estimated LDL cholesterol in the same unit system.
LDL Cholesterol Target Levels
- Low risk (SCORE <5%) → aim for less than 115 mg/dL
- Moderate risk (SCORE 5%–10%) → aim for less than 100 mg/dL
- High risk (SCORE >10%) → aim for less than 70 mg/dL
Important Notes About LDL Calculation
While calculators are helpful, there are some limitations to remember:
- The Friedewald method is not accurate if triglycerides > 400 mg/dL
- Patients with high lipid abnormalities may need direct testing
- Always consult your doctor to interpret results correctly
Why Use an LDL Calculator?
Using an LDL calculator helps:
- Track your cardiovascular risk
- Measure the impact of diet or medication
- Simplify complex lab reports
- Save time in clinical or personal settings
Final Thoughts
Our easy-to-use LDL calculator is perfect for patients, doctors, and health enthusiasts. Whether you’re analyzing your labs or helping a patient, understanding your calculations is a powerful step in managing heart health.
Take control of your health today. Try the calculator now!
FAQs
How to calculate LDL?
Use the Friedewald formula: LDL = TC − HDL − (TG/5) in mg/dL, or LDL = TC − HDL − 0.2×TG in mmol/L. A quick ldl calculator can do this for you.
How do you calculate LDL?
Check your units, then apply the formula above. For reliability, use fasting values and avoid using it when TG ≥ 400 mg/dL (~4.52 mmol/L). Try an ldl calculator if you prefer.
How to calculate LDL cholesterol?
You need Total Cholesterol, HDL, and Triglycerides. Compute with the Friedewald equation or use an online ldl calculation tool.
How do you calculate LDL cholesterol?
In mg/dL: LDL = TC − HDL − (TG/5). In mmol/L: LDL = TC − HDL − 0.2×TG. A calculadora ldl can automate it.
How to calculate LDL-C?
Same formula; just match the unit system. If your report is in mmol/L, use LDL = TC − HDL − 0.2×TG. An ldl calculation widget helps prevent unit mistakes.
How do I calculate LDL cholesterol?
Gather TC, HDL, TG → pick your unit → apply the formula → read the result. Using an ldl calculator is fastest.
How to calculate LDL from cholesterol?
You can’t get LDL from TC alone—you also need HDL and TG. Then apply the Friedewald formula or a calculadora ldl.
What is the LDL calculation?
It’s the Friedewald estimate using TC, HDL, TG: LDL = TC − HDL − (TG/5) (mg/dL) or LDL = TC − HDL − 0.2×TG (mmol/L).
How calculate LDL cholesterol?
Enter TC, HDL, TG into an ldl calculator and it returns LDL in your chosen units.
How to calculate the LDL cholesterol?
Use the formula for your units or a calculadora ldl to avoid manual math; ensure TG isn’t extremely high for accuracy.