LDL Cholesterol: what it means.

The 'bad' cholesterol carrier most associated with cardiovascular risk.

Written to our editorial standards · reviewed against published research· Updated 27 Jun 2026
Typical reference bands (mg/dL)
Optimalunder 100 mg/dL
Borderline130-160 mg/dL
Highover 160 mg/dL
Ranges vary by laboratory, age, and sex, your lab's own reference range always takes precedence.
What does high ldl cholesterol mean?Causes, symptoms & what to do →

Common causes

  • Genetics, including familial hypercholesterolemia
  • A diet high in saturated and trans fats
  • An underactive thyroid
  • Excess weight and low activity

What it can feel like

  • Silent; a key driver of long-term cardiovascular risk

Who should test

Central to heart-risk assessment. Persistently high LDL, or a family history of early heart disease, should be reviewed with a clinician.

Supplements that help lower LDL Cholesterol

Evidence-led, and only a piece of the picture, diet, lifestyle, and your clinician matter most.

Omega-3s, bergamot, red yeast rice, and aged garlic have evidence for modestly lowering LDL; red yeast rice in particular is best used under medical guidance.

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Common questions

What does a high LDL Cholesterol mean?
Common drivers include genetics, including familial hypercholesterolemia; a diet high in saturated and trans fats; an underactive thyroid. A result outside the optimal range is best read in context: discuss it with your clinician, who can weigh the full picture and your lab's own reference range.
What supplements help lower LDL Cholesterol?
Evidence-led options include Omega-3 Fish Oil, Citrus Bergamot, Red Yeast Rice, Aged Garlic Extract. They support, but don't replace, diet, lifestyle, and medical care.

Educational use only, not medical advice or diagnosis. Always interpret lab results with a qualified clinician.