what is non hdl cholesterol, Non-HDL cholesterol is an important marker used to assess cardiovascular health. It refers to the total cholesterol content in your blood minus the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Unlike LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol includes various types of atherogenic particles that contribute to the risk of heart disease.
Non-HDL cholesterol is considered a valuable indicator of heart disease risk because it encompasses both LDL cholesterol and other cholesterol-rich particles like very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol. Higher levels of non-HDL cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular issues.
To calculate your non-HDL cholesterol, subtract your HDL cholesterol level from your total cholesterol level. Ideally, non-HDL cholesterol should be kept at a lower level, as part of an overall strategy to reduce cardiovascular risk. Regular cholesterol checks and discussions with your healthcare provider can help you understand your cholesterol profile and take appropriate steps to manage your heart health.
