LDL Cholesterol Calculator (Friedewald)
Many labs calculate LDL ('bad' cholesterol) from total cholesterol, HDL and triglycerides using the Friedewald formula. Enter your results to see LDL and non-HDL cholesterol.
For information only. A calculator cannot diagnose you; discuss your results with your doctor.
Good to know
The Friedewald formula is less accurate when triglycerides are high or LDL is very low; if your report shows a directly measured LDL, use that. Non-HDL cholesterol is also useful and does not need fasting. Your doctor decides treatment from your overall heart risk, not one number.
Formula
mg/dL: LDL = TC − HDL − TG ÷ 5
mmol/L: LDL = TC − HDL − TG ÷ 2.2
Non-HDL = TC − HDL
TC = total cholesterol, TG = triglycerides. Not valid if TG is 400 mg/dL (4.5 mmol/L) or more.
Common questions
How is LDL calculated?
LDL = total cholesterol − HDL − triglycerides ÷ 5 (all in mg/dL).
When can't LDL be calculated?
When triglycerides are 400 mg/dL (4.5 mmol/L) or more. A direct LDL test is needed instead.
What is non-HDL cholesterol?
Total cholesterol minus HDL. It is also useful and does not need fasting.