LDL Calculator

The LDL calculator estimates the amount of low-density lipoproteins – complex particles that carry lipids in the blood. Their concentration is a very important parameter for predicting arteriosclerotic risk, but its direct measurement is not a part of the diagnostic routine. Instead, the patient's LDL is calculated and presented as LDL-C. It is universally accepted to use Friedewald equation to do so. Read on if you're curious about how to calculate LDL cholesterol.

After estimating your LDL blood level, check out our cholesterol ratio calculator to interpret the results.

We try our best to make our Omni Calculators as precise and reliable as possible. However, this tool can never replace a professional doctor's assessment. If any health condition bothers you, consult a physician.

The internationally recognized formula, developed by W.T. Friedewald, R.I. Levy, and D.S. Fredrickson in 1972, estimates the cholesterol content of the serum low-density lipoprotein fraction:

LDL = TC - HDL - 0.2 × TG

The values you need to insert in the equation are measurements from the standard cholesterol-focused blood test, called the lipid panel:

TC – total cholesterol – it's the sum of the concentration of all cholesterol particles, both the perceived "good" and "bad" ones. It should never exceed 200 mg/dL.

HDL – high-density lipoprotein – a.k.a. "the healthy cholesterol" is associated with lowering the build-up of plaque in the arteries in the process of atherosclerosis, which means it prevents cardiovascular disease and stroke. Its protective function is best when it's over 60 mg/dL. HDL shouldn't drop below 40 mg/dL.

TG – triglycerides – these transport glucose and lipids in both ways between liver and fatty tissue. Their high levels are related to an increased risk of atherosclerosis. Their level in a healthy person should be below 150 mg/dL.

The formula uses a coordinate of 0.2 for values in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). If your results are in millimoles per liter (mmol/L), use a coordinate of 0.45 or use our cholesterol units converter. You can switch the units in the calculator by clicking on their symbols.

After having the lipid profile measured, you can start the calculation. Check what units your lab test results are expressed in – it's important for the calculation.

1. Insert the total cholesterol level.
2. Enter the high-density lipoprotein level.
3. Fill in the third field with your triglyceride level.
4. The calculated LDL cholesterol is presented in the last line.

High levels of LDL promote the build-up of atherosclerotic tissue in the arteries. LDLs invade endothelium in the inner layer of the vessels and become oxidized by free radicals, which leads to the thickening and hardening of arterial walls.

According to the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the European
Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) guidelines, the LDL-C level should be:

• Below 115 mg/dL in people with low coronary risk (SCORE <5%);
• Below 100 mg/dL in patients with medium coronary risk (SCORE 5%-10%); and
• Below 70 mg/dL in patients with high coronary risk (SCORE >10%).

Another calculator that might interest you is our VLDL cholesterol calculator.