LDL Cholesterol: What It Is and What Your Results Mean
Bottom line: LDL is 'bad' cholesterol that builds up in arteries. Below 100 mg/dL is optimal. High LDL is a major risk factor for heart disease.
What Is LDL Cholesterol?
LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is often called 'bad cholesterol' because high levels contribute to the buildup of plaque in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
LDL particles carry cholesterol from your liver to cells throughout your body. When there is too much LDL in your blood, it can deposit cholesterol in artery walls, forming plaque that narrows and hardens arteries over time. This process, called atherosclerosis, is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease.
LDL cholesterol is one of the most important modifiable risk factors for heart disease. Lowering LDL through diet, exercise, and when necessary medication, significantly reduces cardiovascular risk.
LDL Cholesterol Reference Ranges
| Classification | Range (mg/dL) |
|---|---|
| Very Low | Below 50 |
| Optimal | 50 - 99 |
| Near Optimal | 100 - 129 |
| Borderline High | 130 - 159 |
| High | 160 - 189 |
| Very High | 190 - 400 |
What Affects Your LDL Cholesterol Levels?
- Diet, especially saturated fat and trans fat intake
- Physical activity level
- Body weight
- Genetics and family history of high cholesterol
- Age and sex (LDL tends to rise with age)
- Smoking and alcohol consumption
When to Get Tested
Adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4-6 years starting at age 20. If you have risk factors for heart disease, your doctor may recommend more frequent testing. Children with a family history of high cholesterol should be screened between ages 9-11.
Look Up Your LDL Cholesterol Result
Select your value below to see a detailed breakdown of what it means:
Very Low
Optimal
Near Optimal
Borderline High
High
Very High
Read the Full Cholesterol Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Below 100 mg/dL is optimal for most adults. Below 70 mg/dL may be recommended for people with existing heart disease or very high risk. Levels above 160 mg/dL are considered high.
Diet changes can typically lower LDL by 10-30%. Reducing saturated fat, eliminating trans fats, increasing soluble fiber, and adding plant sterols are the most effective dietary strategies.
LDL carries cholesterol to your arteries where it can build up as plaque. HDL carries cholesterol away from arteries back to the liver for removal. Higher HDL is protective, while higher LDL increases risk.
