Cholesterol Ratio Calculator
Calculate cholesterol ratios and assess cardiovascular risk from your lipid panel
Calculate Cholesterol Ratios
Important Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational purposes only and cannot replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for proper interpretation of cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk assessment.
Desirable: <200 mg/dL
Optimal: ≥60 mg/dL
Optimal: <100 mg/dL
Normal: <150 mg/dL
Cholesterol Analysis Results
Individual Cholesterol Values
Cholesterol Ratios
Example Calculation
Sample Lipid Panel (mg/dL)
Total Cholesterol: 274 mg/dL
HDL Cholesterol: 61 mg/dL
LDL Cholesterol: 180 mg/dL
Triglycerides: 165 mg/dL
Calculated Ratios
Total/HDL Ratio: 274 ÷ 61 = 4.5 (Good)
LDL/HDL Ratio: 180 ÷ 61 = 2.9 (Good)
TG/HDL Ratio: 165 ÷ 61 = 2.7 (Borderline)
Assessment: Moderate cardiovascular risk due to high total cholesterol and borderline triglycerides
Ratio Reference Ranges
Total/HDL Ratio
LDL/HDL Ratio
TG/HDL Ratio (mg/dL)
Key Formula
Friedewald Equation
Total Cholesterol = HDL + LDL + (0.2 × Triglycerides)
Only three values needed - the fourth can be calculated
Heart Health Tips
Reduce Saturated Fat
Limit to 5-6% of daily calories
Increase Fiber
Aim for 25-35g daily from whole foods
Exercise Regularly
150 minutes moderate activity weekly
Maintain Healthy Weight
Even 5-10% weight loss helps
Understanding Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Risk
Types of Cholesterol
HDL - "Good" Cholesterol
High-density lipoprotein removes excess cholesterol from arteries and transports it to the liver for disposal. Higher levels are protective against heart disease.
LDL - "Bad" Cholesterol
Low-density lipoprotein can build up in artery walls, forming plaques that narrow arteries and increase heart attack and stroke risk.
Triglycerides
A type of fat in blood that provides energy. High levels often accompany low HDL and increase cardiovascular risk.
Why Ratios Matter
Cholesterol ratios provide better insight into cardiovascular risk than individual values alone. They show the balance between protective and harmful cholesterol levels.
Risk Factors for High Cholesterol
- •Diet high in saturated and trans fats
- •Lack of physical activity
- •Smoking and alcohol use
- •Obesity and diabetes
- •Family history and genetics
Consequences of High Cholesterol
Atherosclerosis
Plaque buildup in arteries that can lead to narrowing and blockages.
Heart Attack
Blocked coronary arteries can cause heart muscle damage or death.
Stroke
Blocked or burst blood vessels in the brain can cause permanent damage.
Lifestyle Improvements
Heart-Healthy Diet
Mediterranean diet, omega-3 fatty acids, plant sterols
Regular Exercise
Aerobic activity raises HDL and lowers LDL
Quit Smoking
Improves HDL levels and overall cardiovascular health
Medication if Needed
Statins and other medications when lifestyle changes aren't enough