It's important to keep your cholesterol levels within healthy limits to reduce the risk for heart disease. Different blood tests are needed to measure different types of cholesterol. Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, is considered "bad" cholesterol, because it can build-up on the inside of artery walls, which can clog arteries. High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is known as "good" cholesterol, because it helps prevent arteries from becoming clogged. A lipid panel or lipid profile is the blood test to check cholesterol levels. It typically measures total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
Step 1
Schedule a complete lipid panel or profile blood test. Once a test time is set, avoid eating or drinking anything for nine to 12 hours before the test. Water is OK to drink, but avoid all other beverages. Also, notify your health care provider of all medication taken before the test.
Step 2
Calculate cholesterol to HDL ratio by dividing your total cholesterol level by your HDL level. For example, if your total cholesterol is 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and your HDL is 60 mg/dL, divide 200 by 60 to equal a ratio of 3.3. A ratio lower than 4.5 is good, but 2 or 3 is desirable.
Step 3
Calculate LDL cholesterol to HDL cholesterol levels. To calculate your ratio, divide LDL by HDL. For example, if your HDL level is 60 mg/dL and your LDL level is 100 mg/dL, divide 100 by 60 to equal a ratio of 1.6. An ideal ratio is lower than 2.5.
Step 4
Calculate your triglyceride to HDL ratio by dividing your triglyceride level by your HDL level. For example, if your triglyceride level is 190 mg/dL and your HDL is 55 mg/dL, divide 190 by 55 to equal a ratio of 3.5. A low ratio of triglycerides to HDL is best, but it ideally should be lower than 2.
Step 5
Discuss the lipid panel results and ratios with your doctor to assess your heart disease risk. Your results will be used to determine the best treatment.
Tips and Warnings
- Total cholesterol is calculated from adding HDL, LDL and very low density lipoprotein, or VLDL. Total cholesterol should be less than 200 mg/dL.
- The American Heart Association recommends using the absolute numbers for the total blood cholesterol and the HDL cholesterol level to determine the appropriate treatment for patients. Cholesterol ratios can be helpful in determining the actual risk for heart disease.
Things You'll Need
- Blood test results
- Paper
- Pen
