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:
- First, determine the total cholesterol (mg/dL).
- The total cholesterol (mg/dL) is given as: 200.
- Next, determine the HDL cholesterol (mg/dL).
- The HDL cholesterol (mg/dL) is provided as: 50.
- 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.