VLDL Cholesterol
Cholesterol carried in very-low-density lipoproteins, the liver's triglyceride-transport particles.
| Typical reference range | 5–40 mg/dL |
| Commonly cited optimal range | below 20 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
VLDL particles are made in the liver to export triglycerides to muscle and fat tissue. As triglycerides are removed, VLDL becomes smaller remnant particles and eventually LDL. VLDL-C is usually estimated as triglycerides divided by 5 (in mg/dL) rather than measured.
Why it matters
VLDL and its remnants carry ApoB and can contribute to plaque. Elevated VLDL-C mirrors high triglycerides and is commonly seen with insulin resistance and fatty liver.
What a high result can mean
Elevated values have the same causes as high triglycerides: excess sugar, refined carbohydrates or alcohol, insulin resistance, diabetes, obesity, hypothyroidism, kidney disease and certain medications.
What a low result can mean
Low VLDL-C is not usually a concern and simply reflects low triglycerides.
What affects the result
Because it is typically derived from triglycerides, it rises after meals and is best interpreted fasting. The estimate becomes inaccurate when triglycerides exceed ~400 mg/dL. Look at triglycerides, non-HDL-C and ApoB together.
Units and conversion
Usually reported in mg/dL.
- From mmol/L: multiply by 38.67 to get mg/dL
Also called on lab reports
VLDL, VLDL-C, VLDL Cholesterol Cal, VLDL Chol Calc, VLDL Cholesterol (Calc)
Related tests: Lipids & Cardiovascular Risk
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.