LDL/HDL Ratio

LipidsHeart & VesselsBlood

The LDL/HDL ratio compares the two main cholesterol-carrying particles in the blood. LDL transports cholesterol toward tissues; HDL carries it back to the liver for processing. The ratio expresses their balance in a single number.

Why it matters: A lower LDL/HDL ratio indicates HDL is more prominent relative to LDL. Population studies link lower ratios with lower cardiovascular event rates, although individual lipid markers are typically reviewed alongside the ratio.

Symptoms of Low LDL/HDL Ratio
Typically without noticeable symptoms
Symptoms of High LDL/HDL Ratio
Typically without noticeable symptoms
What Moves It

May increase with:

High saturated fat diet
Smoking
Obesity

May decrease with:

Exercise
Statins
Weight loss
Associated Conditions
AtherosclerosisCoronary artery disease
Related Markers
LDL-CHDL-CTriglycerides
Common questions

What is LDL/HDL Ratio?

The LDL/HDL ratio compares the two main cholesterol-carrying particles in the blood. LDL transports cholesterol toward tissues; HDL carries it back to the liver for processing. The ratio expresses their balance in a single number.

What might a high or low LDL/HDL Ratio mean?

A lower LDL/HDL ratio indicates HDL is more prominent relative to LDL. Population studies link lower ratios with lower cardiovascular event rates, although individual lipid markers are typically reviewed alongside the ratio.

What can affect LDL/HDL Ratio?

It may be higher with: High saturated fat diet, Smoking, Obesity. It may be lower with: Exercise, Statins, Weight loss.

More in Lipids
Cholesterol/HDL RatioTriglyceride/HDL Ratio

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