LDL Cholesterol/ HDL Cholesterol Ratio Test
LDL Cholesterol/ HDL Cholesterol Ratio Test
LDL cholesterol stands for low-density lipoprotein, or "bad" cholesterol, while HDL means high-density lipoprotein, or "good" cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol make a person prone to heart-related diseases and blood vessel damage. Hence, it is termed "bad cholesterol." On the other hand, HDL cholesterol is counteractive in action and thus is termed "good cholesterol" for the body. Both LDL and HDL are produced in the liver and released into the bloodstream to help in the movement of fats and cholesterol around the body.
This test is a ratio of the above-mentioned two types of lipids in the blood, i.e., LDL/HDL. It is recommended to have a low LDL/HDL ratio to avoid any heart ailments. By consuming foods low in saturated fat and engaging in aerobic exercises, one can improve this ratio. Certain medications (statins) also help lower the LDL/HDL cholesterol ratio.
Who should get tested?
The following people should get tested for LDL/HDL cholesterol:
Obese individuals
Individuals with an increased risk of heart diseases such as coronary artery disease
Diabetic people
Individuals suffering from high blood pressure
People above 60 years of age
Those consuming a diet with high cholesterol foods (example: junk food)
Having a family member with a history of high cholesterol
Test preparation
A blood sample is taken for this test by pricking a fine needle in a vein in your arm, and the blood is collected in a test tube or vial. If you are undergoing an LDL/HDL cholesterol test, it requires that you fast (not eat or drink) for 9 to 12 hours before the test is conducted. Other information that your health care provider should be aware of includes:
- Any significant change in diet over the past week
- Consumption of alcohol in the last 2 days
- An episode of heart attack in the last 3 months
- Any medications, herbs, vitamins, or supplements you might be taking
Interpretation of results
The optimal result for LDL/HDL cholesterol ratio is 0.5 – 3
|
Specifications |
Normal range for LDL/HDL cholesterol levels |
|
Men |
Less than 3.0 |
|
Women |
Less than 2.5 |
|
Children |
Less than 2.5 |
Deviations from the normal range
A high LDL/HDL ratio indicates there is too much LDL (bad cholesterol) relative to HDL (good cholesterol).
FAQs
What does a low LDL/HDL cholesterol level mean?
A person cannot have a low LDL/HDL cholesterol ratio. However, one can have very low LDL cholesterol or very high HDL cholesterol, or both. In such cases, there are no evident symptoms, although very low cholesterol levels can lead to confusion and memory problems at times.
What are some of the risk factors for having a high LDL/HDL cholesterol ratio?
A person is at a higher risk of having elevated levels of LDL/HDL ratio if they smoke, consume alcohol, are obese, lead a sedentary lifestyle, or suffer from diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, or high blood pressure.
How often should I check my LDL/HDL cholesterol levels?
Healthy adults (≥20 years of age) should typically have their LDL/HDL levels checked every four to six years.
Some people need more frequent cholesterol tests, such as every three months, if they have diabetes, heart disease, or a family history of high cholesterol.
If a person is over 50 and in good health, it is advised that they have their LDL/HDL levels checked annually.
Does this test involve any risks?
This test involves having a blood test with a needle. The prick may cause bleeding, infection, or bruising at the site of injecting the needle. There may be a slight sting or pain, which generally wears away in a couple of minutes.
My LDL/HDL cholesterol test shows a high ratio. What steps can I take to lower it?
Cutting down on saturated fats and foods high in cholesterol, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption are some ways to lower cholesterol in the blood. These are risk factors for developing heart disease. Additionally, maintaining an active lifestyle by doing aerobic exercises can cut down on "bad" cholesterol and raise the levels of "good" cholesterol in the blood.
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