Are we truly talking about non-HDL cholesterol - what does it mean and what are its permissible levels?
Mia Hoffmann
2026-03-23
3 min. read
Are we truly talking about non-HDL cholesterol - what does it mean and what are its permissible levels?
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During the execution of genuine tests prescribed by a doctor or conducted independently, it is necessary to check the cholesterol level. Most of us are aware of the existence of its HDL and LDL fractions, but recently a new parameter, named non-HDL cholesterol, has emerged. Read the article to find out more about the next marker on the lipidogram!
Not HDL
The non-HDL parameter is calculated from the difference between total and HDL cholesterol levels. It shows the level of any atherogenic lipid molecules, which are therefore active in the process of building the atherosclerotic plaque. It contains, among others, the fraction: LDL, VLDL, Remains of VlDL, Medium-density Lipoproteins, Lipoprotein (a). Additionally, it takes into account cases of elevated triglyceride levels, as well as a basically equivalent carcinogenic value with apolipoprotein B.
Non-HDL cholesterol is normal
It is important that the individual and target concentration of this parameter should be assessed by a physician. However, it is assumed that it should be: < 145 mg/dl [< 3.8 mmol/l] in healthy people who are not genetically exposed to dyslipidemia, < 130 mg/l[< 3.3 mmol / l] ?? in people who have one of the following: severe hypertension, type I or type II diabetes, no additional organ damage, familial dyslipidaemia. < 100 mg/b[< 2.6 mmol) for people diagnosed with heart disease, diabetes mellitus, stroke, or T.I.
High levels of non-HDL cholesterol
High levels of non-HDL cholesterol are directly linked to a high likelihood of cardiovascular disease and may also indicate pre-existing pathologies in the body. Of course, it can have a much greater impact on the development of these diseases, including diet, improper lifestyle, smoking or stress and hypertension.