Heart Health
Non-HDL Cholesterol
What This Marker Tells Us
Subtracts protective HDL from total cholesterol, capturing all atherogenic lipoproteins, LDL, VLDL, IDL, and lipoprotein(a), that deposit cholesterol into artery walls.
Why It Matters
Comprehensively assesses cardiovascular risk because it includes all cholesterol particles that cause atherosclerosis, not just LDL. After eating, VLDL and remnant particles persist for hours, contributing to plaque formation. Non-HDL captures this postprandial risk that LDL alone misses. It predicts heart disease and stroke as well as advanced markers like ApoB but requires no fasting, making it practical and reliable. Elevated non-HDL indicates accelerated arterial damage from multiple cholesterol sources.
How to Interpret Your Trends
Low non-HDL (below 130 mg/dL) indicates minimal atherogenic cholesterol and excellent cardiovascular protection. Typical values (130-160 mg/dL) suggest moderate risk requiring lifestyle optimization. High non-HDL (above 160 mg/dL) signals significantly elevated cardiovascular risk from excessive atherogenic particles. Goals should be individualized based on existing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other risk factors.
What Influences This Marker
Saturated fat, trans fats, and excess refined carbohydrates elevate atherogenic lipoproteins. Obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome worsen non-HDL. Physical inactivity and genetics influence levels significantly. Mediterranean diet patterns, regular exercise, weight loss, and improved metabolic health lower non-HDL. Soluble fiber, plant sterols, and omega-3 fats provide additional benefit.
How Your Team Uses It
Your coach uses non-HDL to guide cardiovascular risk reduction comprehensively. It simplifies assessment by capturing multiple atherogenic particles in one number. Values guide intensity of dietary interventions, need for advanced lipid testing, and medication considerations. Trends track intervention effectiveness for overall atherogenic burden reduction.
Related Signals We Also Review
Total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, ApoB, LDL particle number, inflammatory markers, and metabolic health indicators complete cardiovascular assessment.