Lipid Panel
A blood test that measures cholesterol and triglycerides to help estimate your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Quick Summary
To check your cholesterol and other blood fats, which helps estimate your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Total cholesterol, LDL ('bad') cholesterol, HDL ('good') cholesterol and triglycerides.
You may be asked to fast for 9–12 hours (water is fine). Some labs no longer require fasting; follow their instructions.
Overview
A lipid panel, also called a lipid profile or cholesterol test, measures the fats in your blood. Too much LDL cholesterol can build up in artery walls and lead to heart disease.
It's usually done as part of a health check, especially for adults with risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking or a family history of heart disease.
Your doctor uses the results, along with your age, blood pressure and other factors, to decide whether you need lifestyle changes or medicines such as statins.
What It Measures
Total cholesterol
All the cholesterol in your blood.
LDL cholesterol
Often called 'bad' cholesterol because it can build up in arteries. Lower is better.
HDL cholesterol
Often called 'good' cholesterol because it helps remove cholesterol from the arteries. Higher is better.
Triglycerides
Another type of fat. High levels are linked to heart disease, diabetes and heavy alcohol use.
How It's Performed
- 01
Preparation
Fast if asked to, drinking only water.
- 02
Blood sample
Blood is taken from a vein in your arm, or sometimes a finger-prick sample is used.
- 03
Afterwards
You can eat and drink straight away.
Reference Ranges
Note: Normal ranges vary by laboratory. Consult your report for the specific reference used.
| Parameter | Typical Range (Adult) | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Total cholesterol | Below 200 | mg/dL |
| LDL cholesterol | Below 100 | mg/dL |
| HDL cholesterol (men) | 40 or above | mg/dL |
| HDL cholesterol (women) | 50 or above | mg/dL |
| Triglycerides | Below 150 | mg/dL |
Interpreting Results & Next Steps
Discuss with Doctor
Your doctor looks at your cholesterol together with your other risk factors, not on its own. Normal ranges differ between laboratories, ages and sexes; always use the range printed on your report and ask your doctor what your results mean.
If values are Low:
Low HDL cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease. Very low total cholesterol is uncommon and has several causes.
If values are High:
High LDL, total cholesterol or triglycerides increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Targets may be lower for people who already have heart disease or diabetes.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Cholesterol levels(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Cholesterol levels(opens in a new tab) · NHS