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LDL (Bad) Cholesterol Estimate

Estimate LDL (bad) cholesterol from total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides using the Friedewald formula. Also shows non-HDL cholesterol and your category at a glance.

Input

Using the Friedewald formula, this tool estimates LDL (bad) cholesterol from total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides. All values are assumed to come from a fasting blood draw.

mg/dl
mg/dl
mg/dl

Result

Estimated LDL (bad) cholesterol

116mg/dl

Category:Normal

Category

Normal

non-HDL cholesterol

140 mg/dl

Triglycerides (TG)

120 mg/dl

LDL cholesterol guide

CategoryLDL range (mg/dl)
Low LDL cholesterolUnder 70
Normal (you)70 – under 120
Borderline120 – under 140
High LDL cholesterol140 and above

How it works

  • The calculation uses the Friedewald formula. LDL cholesterol (mg/dl) = total cholesterol − HDL cholesterol − triglycerides ÷ 5.
  • Dividing triglycerides by 5 is based on the idea that this approximates the amount of cholesterol carried in very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL).
  • The Friedewald formula is valid when triglycerides are below 400 mg/dl. At 400 mg/dl or higher the error grows and the formula no longer applies, so this tool shows a warning.
  • non-HDL cholesterol (mg/dl) = total cholesterol − HDL cholesterol is also calculated. It is a useful indicator when triglycerides are high.
  • Categories are shown based on common clinical guidelines, classifying results as normal, borderline, high LDL cholesterol, and so on. For an accurate assessment, use fasting blood values.
  • This tool provides estimates based on a general formula and is not a diagnosis or medical advice. Always consult a doctor for any health-related decisions.