What is a normal cholesterol level?

Cholesterol is reported as multiple values. Using NCEP categories: total cholesterol under 200 mg/dL is desirable, LDL under 100 mg/dL is optimal, HDL 60 mg/dL or higher is protective, and triglycerides under 150 mg/dL are normal. Your overall risk depends on more than one number, so review results with a clinician.

What is the difference between LDL and HDL?

LDL (low-density lipoprotein) carries cholesterol in the blood and higher LDL levels are associated with higher cardiovascular risk. HDL (high-density lipoprotein) helps transport cholesterol back to the liver and higher HDL can be protective. This tool labels both using standard ranges; it does not provide diagnosis or treatment advice.

How often should I check cholesterol?

It depends on age, family history, conditions like diabetes, and whether you're on cholesterol treatment. Many people check cholesterol during routine preventive care; your clinician can recommend the right screening schedule for you.

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Cholesterol Categories By Number

Use this cholesterol levels calculator to classify total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides using National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) ranges. Enter the numbers from your lipid panel (mg/dL) and the tool returns a category label for each value (for example: LDL "Optimal" or triglycerides "High"). Not medical advice. Discuss lab results and treatment decisions with a healthcare professional. See Methods & assumptions for the cholesterol ranges.

Methods & assumptions

This variant focuses on Cholesterol Categories By Number.

This cholesterol calculator classifies the numbers you enter into standard categories. It does not diagnose conditions or recommend treatment.

Inputs:Total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides (mg/dL).
Outputs:One category label for each value using NCEP ranges.
Category labels:Total cholesterol: Desirable, Borderline high, High. LDL cholesterol: Optimal, Near optimal, Borderline high, High, Very high. HDL cholesterol: Low, Normal, Protective. Triglycerides: Normal, Borderline high, High, Very high.
Units:mg/dL (common in the United States). If your lab reports mmol/L, convert to mg/dL before using this tool.