LDL Cholesterol

Researched

Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol

Cardiovascular • Last tested 2026-01-28

What It Measures

The amount of cholesterol carried by LDL particles in the blood.

LDL carries cholesterol to your arteries. High levels lead to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). Often called "bad cholesterol", though the particle count (LDL-P) and size matter more than the cholesterol concentration (LDL-C).

Current Value

137mg/dL
Reference Range: 0100 mg/dL(standard)
Optimal Range: 070 mg/dL(Function Health, LabCorp, Quest Diagnostics)
High
-6.0 (-4.2%) from previous test
0 mg/dLOptimal: 070100 mg/dL

What High Means

Elevated LDL-C is strongly associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. It drives plaque formation in arterial walls, leading to heart attack and stroke.

Possible Symptoms

No direct symptoms. Damage is silent until an event (chest pain, heart attack, stroke) occurs.

What Low Means

Very low LDL is generally not harmful and may be protective. Some individuals on statins or with genetic variants have very low LDL without issues.

Possible Symptoms

Generally none; very low levels are typically benign

Risk Factors

Coronary artery disease, heart attack, stroke, peripheral artery disease

Actionable Advice

Supplements

  • Berberine
  • Citrus bergamot
  • Red yeast rice
  • Plant sterols/stanols
  • Omega-3 fatty acids

Diet & Lifestyle

  • Prioritize monounsaturated fats (olive oil, avocado)
  • Increase soluble fiber (10-25g/day)
  • Regular aerobic exercise
  • Consider advanced lipid testing (LDL-P, ApoB)
  • Minimize trans fats and processed foods

Ask AI

Ask questions about your LDL Cholesterol results, trends, and what you can do to optimize.

Historical Trend

Reference
Optimal
Last researched Feb 14, 2026

All Readings

DateValueChange
2026-01-28137 mg/dL-6.0
2025-08-25143 mg/dL+19.0
2025-06-27124 mg/dL