Lipid Profile Reference Guide
A lipid profile measures the fats in your blood. This guide explains each value and the ranges doctors use.
These health tools are still being tested and are updated regularly to give you a better experience. Results are estimates for information only — please confirm important results with a doctor. Read the medical disclaimer
Lipid Profile Reference Guide
Next steps
- CBC Parameter Reference GuideUnderstand every value on your Complete Blood Count report, with normal ranges.
- Hemoglobin Reference Range CheckerCheck if your haemoglobin is normal for your age, sex and pregnancy, and the anaemia level.
- Blood Sugar Level Reference GuideNormal, prediabetes and diabetes ranges for fasting, after-meal, random and HbA1c tests.
- Signs of Dehydration and How to Prevent Water Deficiency in the BodyHealth guide
About the Lipid Profile Reference Guide
High LDL and triglycerides with low HDL raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. Indians tend to develop heart disease earlier, so regular checks matter.
How to use the Lipid Profile Reference Guide
- Select sex (HDL targets differ).
- Enter total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides and other values from your report; switch the unit to mmol/L if needed.
- Press “Check my values” to see the category for each and calculated ratios; read more in the library below.
Reference ranges & how it works
Adult ranges (NCEP ATP III, mg/dL):
Total cholesterol: below 200 desirable · 200–239 borderline · 240+ high
LDL: below 100 optimal · 100–129 near optimal · 130–159 borderline · 160–189 high · 190+ very high
HDL: below 40 (men) / 50 (women) low · 60+ protective
Triglycerides: below 150 normal · 150–199 borderline · 200–499 high · 500+ very high
People with diabetes or heart disease usually have stricter targets set by their doctor.
Worked example: Lipid Profile Reference
A man with total cholesterol 228, HDL 38 and triglycerides 210 mg/dL: total cholesterol is borderline high, HDL low and triglycerides high. The tool also estimates LDL with the Sampson equation and shows a total/HDL ratio of 6.0 (high).
Important limitations
- NCEP categories are general; personal targets depend on overall heart risk.
- Triglycerides are best measured fasting.
- Reference ranges differ between laboratories; the range printed on your own report takes priority. Discuss abnormal results with a doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast for a lipid profile?
Many labs ask for 10–12 hours of fasting, though non-fasting tests are increasingly accepted. Follow your doctor’s or lab’s instructions.
How often should I get a lipid profile?
Every 4–6 years for healthy adults, and more often if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of heart disease or abnormal results.
What is lipoprotein(a)?
Lp(a) is an inherited type of LDL particle that raises heart risk and is common in South Asians. It is not part of a routine lipid profile — guidelines suggest checking it once in a lifetime.
What lifestyle changes lower cholesterol?
Reducing saturated and trans fats, eating more soluble fibre (oats, pulses), nuts and vegetables, regular exercise, weight loss and avoiding alcohol. Triglycerides respond especially well to cutting sugar, refined carbs and alcohol.
Sources
- NCEP Adult Treatment Panel III Final Report. Circulation 2002;106:3143-421.
- Lipid Association of India. Expert consensus statement on management of dyslipidaemia, 2020.
Medical disclaimer: Reference ranges differ between laboratories; the range printed on your own report takes priority. Discuss abnormal results with a doctor. These tools give general information and estimates only. They are not a diagnosis and do not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Always talk to your doctor about your results, and seek urgent medical help in an emergency. In an emergency call 112. Medical disclaimer · Terms of use · Privacy policy
