1. What is Cholesterol Ratio?

The Cholesterol Ratio is a simple calculation that compares your total cholesterol level to your HDL (good) cholesterol level. It provides a quick assessment of your cardiovascular health risk and helps evaluate the balance between different types of cholesterol in your blood.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Cholesterol Ratio formula:

Where:

• Total Cholesterol — The sum of all cholesterol types in your blood (mg/dL)
• HDL — High-Density Lipoprotein, known as "good" cholesterol (mg/dL)

Explanation: This ratio helps determine the proportion of protective HDL cholesterol relative to your total cholesterol level, giving insight into your heart disease risk.

3. Importance of Cholesterol Ratio

Details: A lower ratio indicates better cardiovascular health, as it suggests you have more protective HDL cholesterol relative to your total cholesterol. Generally, a ratio below 5:1 is considered good, while a ratio below 3.5:1 is considered optimal for heart health.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your total cholesterol and HDL values in mg/dL from your latest blood test results. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy cholesterol ratio?
A: A ratio of 5:1 or lower is considered good, while 3.5:1 or lower is considered optimal for cardiovascular health.

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

Q3: Can I improve my cholesterol ratio?
A: Yes, through regular exercise, healthy diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains), maintaining healthy weight, and avoiding smoking.

Q4: Is the cholesterol ratio more important than individual numbers?
A: Both are important. While the ratio provides context, individual cholesterol levels (LDL, HDL, triglycerides) also provide crucial information about your heart health.

Q5: What if my ratio is high?
A: A high ratio suggests increased cardiovascular risk. Consult with your healthcare provider about lifestyle changes and possible medical interventions.