Cholesterol Ratio Calculator

The most commonly used ratio is total cholesterol divided by HDL cholesterol. A ratio below 3.5 is considered optimal, below 5.0 is acceptable, and above 5.0 indicates elevated cardiovascular risk. Another key ratio is LDL to HDL; a value below 2.5 is ideal. Some clinicians prefer the non-HDL cholesterol figure or the ApoB/ApoA-I ratio as more precise predictors of cardiovascular risk.

LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is often called 'bad' cholesterol because high levels contribute to plaque buildup in artery walls (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is 'good' cholesterol because it helps transport LDL away from the arteries to the liver for excretion. Triglycerides are a third type of blood fat also measured in a standard lipid panel.

Lifestyle changes with the strongest evidence include: replacing saturated and trans fats with unsaturated fats (olive oil, avocados, nuts, oily fish), increasing soluble fibre intake (oats, beans, flaxseed), regular aerobic exercise (raises HDL), quitting smoking, moderating alcohol, and achieving a healthy weight. Medications called statins are prescribed when lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, particularly for those with high cardiovascular risk.