1. What is Cholesterol Ratio?

The cholesterol ratio is a simple calculation that compares your total cholesterol to your HDL (good) cholesterol. It provides a quick assessment of cardiovascular risk and is calculated by dividing total cholesterol by HDL cholesterol.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the cholesterol ratio formula:

Where:

• \( TC \) — Total cholesterol (mg/dL)
• \( HDL \) — HDL cholesterol (mg/dL)

Explanation: A lower ratio indicates a lower risk of heart disease, while a higher ratio suggests increased risk.

3. Importance of Cholesterol Ratio

Details: The cholesterol ratio is an important indicator of cardiovascular health. It helps assess heart disease risk and provides a more comprehensive picture than looking at total cholesterol alone.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol values in mg/dL. Both values must be greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good cholesterol ratio?
A: A ratio below 5:1 is considered good, with the ideal ratio being 3.5:1 or lower.

Q2: How often should I check my cholesterol ratio?
A: Adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4-6 years, or more frequently if you have risk factors for heart disease.

Q3: Can lifestyle changes improve my cholesterol ratio?
A: Yes, regular exercise, healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking can all help improve your cholesterol ratio.

Q4: Is cholesterol ratio more important than individual numbers?
A: Both are important. While the ratio provides a quick assessment, individual cholesterol levels (LDL, HDL, triglycerides) give a more complete picture.

Q5: What factors can affect cholesterol levels?
A: Diet, exercise, weight, age, gender, genetics, and certain medical conditions can all influence cholesterol levels.