What is non hdl cholesterol, or non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, is a crucial component of blood lipid profiles used to assess cardiovascular health. It includes all the cholesterol carried by lipoproteins except high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Non-HDL cholesterol encompasses low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, and intermediate-density lipoprotein (IDL) cholesterol.

Measuring non-HDL cholesterol provides a more comprehensive view of the risk for cardiovascular disease compared to just assessing LDL cholesterol alone. Elevated levels of non-HDL cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease. To calculate non-HDL cholesterol, subtract your HDL cholesterol levels from your total cholesterol levels. Lowering non-HDL cholesterol through lifestyle changes or medications can help reduce cardiovascular risk.