Non-HDL Cholesterol
Total cholesterol minus HDL: the cholesterol in all potentially plaque-forming particles.
| Typical reference range | below 129 mg/dL |
| Commonly cited optimal range | below 100 mg/dL |
Ranges vary by laboratory, method, age and sex: always use the range printed on your own report. Why labs differ.
What it measures
Non-HDL cholesterol is calculated as total cholesterol minus HDL cholesterol. It captures cholesterol in LDL, VLDL, intermediate-density lipoprotein, remnants and Lp(a), all of which carry ApoB.
Why it matters
Non-HDL-C predicts cardiovascular risk at least as well as LDL-C and is more reliable when triglycerides are elevated or when the sample is non-fasting. Many guidelines use it as a secondary treatment target, usually 30 mg/dL above the LDL-C goal.
What a high result can mean
High values reflect elevated LDL and/or triglyceride-rich remnant particles, from genetics, diet, insulin resistance, hypothyroidism, kidney disease or medications.
What a low result can mean
Low values are generally associated with lower atherosclerotic risk; unusually low values without treatment follow the same causes as low total cholesterol.
What affects the result
Fasting is not required, which is one advantage of this marker. It moves with the same levers as LDL and triglycerides: diet quality, weight, exercise, alcohol and lipid-lowering therapy. ApoB is a closely related, particle-based measure.
Units and conversion
Usually reported in mg/dL.
- From mmol/L: multiply by 38.67 to get mg/dL
Also called on lab reports
Non HDL Cholesterol, Non-HDL-C, Non-HDL Chol, Non HDL-C, Non-HDL Cholesterol (Calc)
Related tests: Lipids & Cardiovascular Risk
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.