LDL stands for low-density lipoproteins. LDL cholesterol is sometimes called “bad” cholesterol because high LDL levels can cause the build-up of plaque and clog your arteries. Too much LDL cholesterol in your blood may put you at risk for heart disease and other serious conditions. This test can be used by a healthcare provider along with other factors to evaluate your cardiovascular health.

A healthy LDL cholesterol range for you may depend on your age, family history, lifestyle, and other risk factors. In general, low LDL levels and high HDL cholesterol levels are good for heart health. High levels of triglycerides may also put you at risk for heart disease. We encourage you to share your result with your own primary care provider, who can consider your individual factors when evaluating your test results and recommending the appropriate next steps.