VLDL particles carry triglycerides from the liver to the tissues. As they lose triglyceride they become LDL. High VLDL is linked with heart disease and is common with obesity, diabetes and heavy alcohol use.
How to use the VLDL Calculator
- Triglycerides
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Enter your triglycerides. The estimate is not reliable when triglycerides are above 400 mg/dL (4.5 mmol/L).
Tips
- Use results from the same fasting state the formula expects (most lipid formulas assume fasting).
- Check the units on your lab report before entering values.
- Discuss treatment targets with your clinician – they depend on your overall risk.
- Repeat abnormal results; a single value can be misleading.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using Friedewald LDL when triglycerides are above 400 mg/dL.
- Mixing mg/dL and mmol/L values in one calculation.
- Ignoring other risk factors such as smoking and blood pressure.
Example values
How the main result changes when Triglycerides changes and everything else stays at the example values above:
| Triglycerides (mg/dL) | VLDL cholesterol (mg/dL) |
|---|---|
| 75 | 15 |
| 112.5 | 23 |
| 150 | 30 |
| 187.5 | 38 |
| 225 | 45 |
| 300 | 60 |
Health note: this calculator is for education and screening only and is not a diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your results with a qualified clinician.
Formula
VLDL (mg/dL) = TG ÷ 5
VLDL (mmol/L) = TG ÷ 2.2
Worked example
Inputs — Triglycerides: 150 mg/dL.
Results — VLDL cholesterol = 30 mg/dL; Estimate valid? = Yes.
Key terms
- VLDL
- Very-low-density lipoprotein.
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal VLDL?
2–30 mg/dL (0.1–0.8 mmol/L).
How can I lower VLDL?
Lower triglycerides: less sugar and alcohol, more activity and weight loss.
Is VLDL measured directly?
Rarely – it is usually estimated from triglycerides.