LDL Cholesterol

Lipid PanelHeart & VesselsBlood

LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, is a type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol in the blood.

Why it matters: Too much LDL cholesterol is associated with a higher risk of stroke and heart attack.

Source · Cleveland Clinic — what it is, why it matters, what moves it, related conditions

Reference Range
< 3.0mmol/L
3NormalHigh
What Moves It

May increase with:

Saturated fat from fatty meats
Full-fat dairy products
Bakery items

May decrease with:

Soluble fiber
Physical activity
Associated Conditions
Atherosclerosis, or plaque buildup in the arteries, which excess LDL cholesterol contributes to when the level is high
Related Markers
Apolipoprotein BHDL CholesterolTriglyceridesTotal Cholesterolhscrplpa
Common questions

What is LDL Cholesterol?

LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, is a type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol in the blood.

What might a high or low LDL Cholesterol mean?

Too much LDL cholesterol is associated with a higher risk of stroke and heart attack.

What is the typical reference range for LDL Cholesterol?

The general-population reference range shown here is < 3 mmol/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.

What can affect LDL Cholesterol?

It may be higher with: Saturated fat from fatty meats, Full-fat dairy products, Bakery items. It may be lower with: Soluble fiber, Physical activity.

More in Lipid Panel
ApoB/ApoA1 RatioApolipoprotein A1Apolipoprotein BHDL CholesterolLipoprotein(a)Non-HDL CholesterolRemnant CholesterolTotal CholesterolTriglyceridesVLDL Cholesterol

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