LDL Cholesterol
LDL (low-density lipoprotein) carries cholesterol from the liver to tissues. When too much LDL is in the blood, it deposits in artery walls, building plaques that narrow vessels and trigger heart attacks and strokes. LDL is the primary therapeutic target in cardiovascular risk management.
Normal Range
Optimal: < 100 mg/dL; Near optimal: 100–129; Borderline: 130–159; High: 160–189; Very high: ≥190
Reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories. Always interpret your result in context with your doctor.
Why is LDL measured?
LDL is the central biomarker for cardiovascular risk assessment. It is tested at every cholesterol screening, used to guide statin therapy, and monitored for response to lifestyle changes and medications.
High LDL means…
High LDL increases atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk. Targets are individualised: <100 mg/dL for low-risk people, <70 for high-risk, and <55 for very high-risk patients (existing heart disease, diabetes with risk factors).
Low LDL means…
Very low LDL (<40 mg/dL) is unusual outside of statin therapy. It is generally safe but may rarely indicate malabsorption, hyperthyroidism, or certain genetic conditions.
Symptoms associated with abnormal LDL
When LDL is high:
- No symptoms until heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease occurs
- Xanthomas (cholesterol deposits under skin) in severe familial cases
- Chest pain in advanced disease
When LDL is low:
- Usually no symptoms
How to improve your LDL
- Replace saturated fat (butter, fatty meat) with unsaturated fat (olive oil, avocado, nuts) — the highest-impact dietary change.
- Soluble fibre (oats, barley, legumes, apples) actively lowers LDL.
- Regular aerobic exercise (150 min/week) lowers LDL by 5–10%.
- If prescribed a statin, do not stop without medical advice — abrupt discontinuation increases cardiovascular event risk.
Frequently asked questions about LDL
What is the LDL target after a heart attack?
Most cardiology guidelines recommend LDL below 70 mg/dL after a heart attack, and below 55 mg/dL for those with multiple events or very high risk. Statins, ezetimibe, and PCSK9 inhibitors may be combined to reach these targets.
Is LDL accurate without fasting?
LDL is calculated, and traditionally the calculation is most accurate after 9–12 hours of fasting. Modern direct LDL assays and the Martin-Hopkins equation give reliable non-fasting values for most people.
Medical Sources
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your individual results.