LDL Cholesterol Level Calculator

Your test report will show your cholesterol levels in milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL). To determine how your cholesterol levels affect your risk of heart disease, your doctor will also take into account other risk factors such as age, family history, smoking and high blood pressure. A complete fasting lipoprotein profile will show:

Total blood (or serum) cholesterol level
HDL (good) cholesterol level
LDL (bad) cholesterol level
Your triglyceride level

The lower your LDL cholesterol, the lower your risk of heart attack and stroke. In fact, it's a better gauge of risk than total blood cholesterol.


What you can do to keep your LDL Cholesterol Low

• Work with your doctor. Continue working closely with your doctor to find the best strategy to minimize your heart disease risk.
• Limit unhealthy fats. Control saturated fat by choosing lean meats such as skinless chicken breasts, or fish. Avoid trans fats, which are found in many commercial baked goods, such as crackers, cookies and cakes. When you do use fat, choose monounsaturated types, such as olive oil or canola oil, or polyunsaturated fats, found in nuts and seeds.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables. Fresh and frozen produce are low in calories and rich in nutrients and fiber.
• Get regular physical activity. With your doctor's OK, work up to getting 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity a day. It doesn't have to be fancy. A brisk walk, riding a bike; just get moving.