Enter the total cholesterol (mg/dL) and the HDL cholesterol (mg/dL) into the Cholesterol Ratio Calculator. The calculator will evaluate and display the Cholesterol Ratio. 

Cholesterol Ratio Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the Cholesterol Ratio. 

CR = TC / HDL 
  • Where CR is the Cholesterol Ratio (Total:HDL)
  • TC is the total cholesterol (mg/dL) 
  • HDL is the HDL cholesterol (mg/dL) 

To calculate the cholesterol ratio, divide the total cholesterol by the HDL cholesterol.

How to Calculate Cholesterol Ratio?

The following example problems outline how to calculate Cholesterol Ratio.

Example Problem #1:

  1. First, determine the total cholesterol (mg/dL).
    • The total cholesterol (mg/dL) is given as: 200.
  2. Next, determine the HDL cholesterol (mg/dL).
    • The HDL cholesterol (mg/dL) is provided as: 50.
  3. Finally, calculate the Cholesterol Ratio using the equation above: 

CR = TC / HDL 

The values given above are inserted into the equation below and the solution is calculated:

CR = 200 / 50  = 4 (Total:1)


FAQ

What is considered a healthy cholesterol ratio?

A healthy cholesterol ratio is generally considered to be below 5:1, with the optimal ratio being 3.5:1 or lower. This ratio is calculated by dividing the total cholesterol by the HDL (good) cholesterol level. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive assessment.

Why is the cholesterol ratio important?

The cholesterol ratio is an important indicator of heart health. A lower ratio suggests a lower risk of heart disease because it indicates a higher level of HDL cholesterol, which helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream. Conversely, a higher ratio indicates a higher risk of heart disease.

Can lifestyle changes affect my cholesterol ratio?

Yes, lifestyle changes can significantly impact your cholesterol ratio. Regular physical activity, eating a diet low in saturated and trans fats, avoiding tobacco smoke, and maintaining a healthy weight can help improve your cholesterol ratio by lowering the total cholesterol and increasing the HDL cholesterol levels.