Your lipid panel is a blood test that measures the amount of fats and fat-like substances in your blood. These include cholesterol (both LDL and HDL) and triglycerides. Understanding these numbers is crucial for assessing your risk of heart disease and other metabolic conditions. This article, reviewed by our Medical Advisory Board, will break down each component of your lipid panel and explain what healthy ranges mean for you.
Medically Reviewed: All clinical information on this page has been reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Jane Doe, MD.
Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol is the sum of all cholesterol in your blood. While it provides a general overview, it's more important to look at the individual components.
- Optimal: Less than 200 mg/dL (5.2 mmol/L)
- Borderline High: 200-239 mg/dL (5.2-6.2 mmol/L)
- High: 240 mg/dL (6.2 mmol/L) and above
LDL Cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein)
Often called "bad" cholesterol, high levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL (2.6 mmol/L)
- Near Optimal/Above Optimal: 100-129 mg/dL (2.6-3.3 mmol/L)
- Borderline High: 130-159 mg/dL (3.4-4.1 mmol/L)
- High: 160-189 mg/dL (4.1-4.9 mmol/L)
- Very High: 190 mg/dL (4.9 mmol/L) and above
HDL Cholesterol (High-Density Lipoprotein)
Known as "good" cholesterol, HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from your arteries, protecting against heart disease. Higher levels are generally better.
- Poor: Less than 40 mg/dL (1.0 mmol/L)
- Better: 40-59 mg/dL (1.0-1.5 mmol/L)
- Protective: 60 mg/dL (1.5 mmol/L) and above
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood that your body uses for energy. High levels can increase your risk of heart disease and pancreatitis.
- Optimal: Less than 150 mg/dL (1.7 mmol/L)
- Borderline High: 150-199 mg/dL (1.7-2.2 mmol/L)
- High: 200-499 mg/dL (2.3-5.6 mmol/L)
- Very High: 500 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L) and above