Lipid Panel: Reference Ranges & What Results Mean

A lipid panel is a blood test that measures different types of fats in the blood, including LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. Abnormal lipid levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as angina, heart attack, and stroke.

A healthcare provider may order a lipid panel to assess a person's cardiovascular risk and determine whether treatment is needed. The results can also help guide treatment and reduce the risk of complications.

A lipid panel may be performed with or without fasting. A healthcare provider may recommend fasting based on the results, medical history, and individual circumstances.

Complete lipid panel

A complete lipid panel may include the following values:

1. LDL cholesterol

LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, is commonly called "bad" cholesterol because high LDL cholesterol levels are associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease. LDL carries cholesterol throughout the body, where it is used for functions such as hormone production.

Reference value: The recommended LDL cholesterol goal depends on a person's cardiovascular risk. For people at borderline or intermediate risk, the treatment goal may be below 100 mg/dL. For people at high risk, the goal is below 70 mg/dL, while people with established cardiovascular disease who are at very high risk may have a goal below 55 mg/dL.

2. HDL cholesterol

HDL, or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, is commonly known as "good" cholesterol because higher levels are generally associated with greater cardiovascular protection.

Reference value: HDL cholesterol levels are generally considered more favorable when they are higher. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet that includes sources of healthy fats and fiber, such as fish, olive oil, vegetables, and seeds, can help support cardiovascular health.

3. VLDL cholesterol

VLDL, or very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, primarily transports triglycerides and cholesterol to tissues throughout the body. It is included in non-HDL cholesterol and is generally best kept at low levels.

Reference value: VLDL cholesterol is commonly considered within the expected range when it is approximately 2 to 30 mg/dL, although laboratory reference ranges may vary.

4. Non-HDL cholesterol

Non-HDL cholesterol is the total amount of cholesterol in the blood excluding HDL cholesterol. Like LDL cholesterol, it is an important marker that healthcare providers may use to assess cardiovascular risk and guide treatment.

Reference value: The recommended non-HDL cholesterol goal depends on cardiovascular risk. A goal below 130 mg/dL may be recommended for people at borderline or intermediate risk, while a goal below 100 mg/dL may be used for people at high risk.

5. Total cholesterol

Total cholesterol reflects the overall amount of cholesterol in the blood, including cholesterol carried by HDL, LDL, and other lipoproteins. High total cholesterol may be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Reference value: A total cholesterol level below 200 mg/dL is generally considered desirable for adults in the United States. However, total cholesterol should be interpreted together with the other results on the lipid panel because a higher HDL level can also increase the total cholesterol measurement.

6. Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat that serves as an important source of energy for the body and muscles. However, high triglyceride levels may contribute to fat buildup in blood vessels and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Reference value: A triglyceride level below 150 mg/dL is generally considered normal in adults. The higher the level, the greater the potential risk of complications, and very high triglyceride levels can also increase the risk of pancreatitis.

When a lipid panel is ordered

Lipid screening is recommended for all adults starting at age 19. For adults with normal results and no major cardiovascular risk factors, testing is generally repeated about every 5 years, although more frequent testing may be needed based on cholesterol levels, medical history, and overall cardiovascular risk.

According to the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association, cholesterol screening is recommended for children ages 9 to 11 who have not previously been tested. Earlier screening may be appropriate for children with a family history of premature cardiovascular disease, severe hypercholesterolemia, or familial hypercholesterolemia. 

The 2026 ACC/AHA guideline also recommends measuring lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), at least once during adulthood. Lp(a) is largely determined by genetics and can help identify additional cardiovascular risk not captured by a standard lipid panel.

Healthy cholesterol levels

To find out whether your cholesterol levels are within the recommended range, enter the results of your lipid panel in the calculator below:

Keep in mind that cholesterol results should be interpreted together with your overall cardiovascular risk and medical history.

Abnormal results

If a lipid panel shows abnormal results, a healthcare provider may recommend:

• Dietary changes: Limit foods high in saturated fat, fried foods, fatty meats, and excess refined carbohydrates. A healthcare provider or registered dietitian can provide individualized guidance.
• Regular exercise: Aim for about 150 minutes of physical activity per week, when appropriate.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking increases cardiovascular risk and can negatively affect cholesterol levels.
• Medications: Statins such as simvastatin, atorvastatin, or rosuvastatin may be prescribed to lower cholesterol. Fibrates such as fenofibrate or gemfibrozil may be used in some cases to lower triglycerides.

It is also important to manage other cardiovascular risk factors, including blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and body weight, as these can contribute to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.