Lipid panel explained
Also known as: lipid profile, cholesterol test, lipid panel
A lipid panel is a blood test that measures the fats in your blood — total cholesterol, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and triglycerides, often with non-HDL and VLDL cholesterol. Together these estimate your risk of heart disease and stroke and guide whether lifestyle changes or medication are needed. Most results are compared against a normal reference range printed on your report.
What each lipid panel result means
Tap any linked value for a full explanation of high and low results.
| Test | What it measures | Desirable range |
|---|---|---|
| Total cholesterolThe sum of all cholesterol in your blood. | The sum of all cholesterol in your blood. | Desirable: < 200 mg/dL |
| LDL cholesterol“Bad” cholesterol; the main driver of plaque buildup. | “Bad” cholesterol; the main driver of plaque buildup. | Optimal: < 100 mg/dL |
| HDL cholesterol“Good” cholesterol; helps clear cholesterol from arteries. | “Good” cholesterol; helps clear cholesterol from arteries. | ≥ 60 mg/dL (higher is protective) |
| TriglyceridesA blood fat that stores excess energy; tied to diet and metabolism. | A blood fat that stores excess energy; tied to diet and metabolism. | Normal: < 150 mg/dL |
| Non-HDL cholesterolTotal cholesterol minus HDL; captures all the artery-clogging particles. | Total cholesterol minus HDL; captures all the artery-clogging particles. | Optimal: < 130 mg/dL |
| VLDL cholesterolVery-low-density lipoprotein; mostly carries triglycerides. | Very-low-density lipoprotein; mostly carries triglycerides. | Normal: 2–30 mg/dL |
Reference ranges and personal targets vary by lab and by your cardiovascular risk. Use the ranges printed on your own report and your doctor's guidance as the definitive comparison.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a lipid panel used for?
A lipid panel (also called a lipid profile or cholesterol test) measures the fats in your blood — total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides, often with non-HDL and VLDL — to estimate your risk of heart disease and stroke. Doctors use it for routine cardiovascular screening and to monitor treatments like statins or diet changes.
Do I need to fast for a lipid panel?
Sometimes. Fasting for 9–12 hours was traditionally required, mainly because eating raises triglycerides. Many guidelines now accept non-fasting lipid panels for routine screening, but if your triglycerides are being closely tracked your doctor may ask you to fast. Follow the instructions your provider gives you.
What are good cholesterol numbers?
For most adults, desirable levels are total cholesterol under 200 mg/dL, LDL under 100 mg/dL, HDL at or above 60 mg/dL, triglycerides under 150 mg/dL, and non-HDL under 130 mg/dL. Your personal targets depend on your overall cardiovascular risk — people with diabetes or heart disease often aim for lower LDL and non-HDL.
Which lipid number matters most?
LDL cholesterol has traditionally been the main treatment target, but non-HDL cholesterol (total minus HDL) is increasingly emphasized because it captures every atherogenic particle, including VLDL, in a single number and doesn't require fasting. Your doctor interprets the whole panel together with your other risk factors.
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Medically reviewed by Antonieta Rueda, MD and Kyle R. Toth, MD · Last reviewed July 6, 2026
This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or your lab results.