VLDL Calculator
Calculate VLDL cholesterol from triglycerides and assess cardiovascular disease risk
VLDL Cholesterol Calculator
Calculate your VLDL cholesterol from triglycerides and assess cardiovascular risk
VLDL Cholesterol Calculator
VLDL Cholesterol Results
Recommendations
- Maintain healthy lifestyle
- Continue current diet and exercise habits
- Regular lipid monitoring every 5 years
- Keep triglycerides under control
VLDL Risk Categories
About VLDL Cholesterol
VLDL (Very Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol is a type of "bad cholesterol" that primarily carries triglycerides in the blood. High VLDL levels contribute to the buildup of plaque in arteries and increase cardiovascular disease risk.
What is VLDL Cholesterol?
VLDL is produced by the liver and carries triglycerides to tissues throughout the body. As VLDL particles deliver triglycerides, they become smaller and denser, eventually becoming LDL cholesterol. VLDL typically makes up 10-15% of total cholesterol.
Calculation Methods
Standard Formula (TG/5)
VLDL = Triglycerides ÷ 5
Most commonly used formula, based on the assumption that VLDL particles contain about 5 times more triglycerides than cholesterol by weight.
Martin/Hopkins Formula
Uses variable factors (5, 6, 7, or 8) based on triglyceride levels
Provides better accuracy when triglycerides are elevated above 150 mg/dL.
Sampson Formula
Uses a complex equation accounting for the relationship between triglycerides and non-HDL cholesterol
Most accurate method, especially for patients with metabolic syndrome or diabetes.
VLDL Cholesterol Levels
- Normal: Less than 30 mg/dL
- Borderline: 31-40 mg/dL
- High: 41 mg/dL and above
VLDL vs Other Cholesterol Types
- VLDL: Carries mostly triglycerides (60-70% triglycerides, 10-15% cholesterol)
- LDL: Carries mostly cholesterol (about 50% cholesterol)
- HDL: "Good cholesterol" that removes cholesterol from arteries
Risk Factors for High VLDL
- High triglyceride levels (over 150 mg/dL)
- Insulin resistance and diabetes
- Metabolic syndrome
- Diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugars
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Being overweight or obese
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Genetic factors
Health Risks of High VLDL
- Increased risk of coronary heart disease
- Stroke risk
- Peripheral artery disease
- Pancreatitis (when triglycerides are very high)
- Metabolic syndrome
Lowering VLDL Cholesterol
Lifestyle Changes:
- Reduce refined carbohydrates and added sugars
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Increase omega-3 fatty acids (fish, flax seeds, walnuts)
- Exercise regularly (especially aerobic exercise)
- Lose weight if overweight
- Eat more fiber-rich foods
- Choose healthy fats (olive oil, avocados, nuts)
Medical Treatment:
- Statins (also help lower VLDL)
- Fibrates (specifically target triglycerides and VLDL)
- Niacin (vitamin B3)
- Omega-3 prescription medications
- PCSK9 inhibitors (for severe cases)
When VLDL Cannot Be Calculated
VLDL calculation may be inaccurate or impossible when:
- Triglycerides are very high (over 400 mg/dL)
- Patient has not fasted before blood test
- Presence of chylomicrons in blood
- Certain genetic lipid disorders
In these cases, direct measurement of VLDL may be needed using ultracentrifugation.
Relationship with Metabolic Syndrome
High VLDL is often part of metabolic syndrome, which includes:
- High triglycerides (150 mg/dL or higher)
- Low HDL cholesterol (under 40 mg/dL for men, under 50 mg/dL for women)
- High blood pressure (130/85 mmHg or higher)
- High blood sugar (100 mg/dL or higher)
- Large waist circumference
Important Note
This calculator is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. VLDL is typically estimated rather than directly measured, and results should always be interpreted by healthcare providers in the context of your complete lipid profile and overall health status. Triglyceride levels significantly affect VLDL calculations, so fasting before blood tests is important for accuracy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this calculator free to use?
Yes, all calculators on Calculator Galaxy are completely free to use.
How accurate are the results?
Our calculators use standard mathematical formulas to provide accurate results.
Can I save my calculations?
Currently, results are not saved between sessions. We recommend taking a screenshot if you need to save your results.