Formula Used
The ratio equals triglycerides divided by HDL cholesterol using the same units.
- Ratio = TG / HDL
- mmol/L to mg/dL: TG × 88.57; HDL × 38.67
- mg/dL to mmol/L: TG ÷ 88.57; HDL ÷ 38.67
How to Use This Calculator
- Choose your input unit: mmol/L or mg/dL.
- Enter triglycerides and HDL from your lab report.
- Optional: customize interpretation bands to your preference.
- Press Calculate, then add scenarios to compare results.
- Export results, table, or share a link with current inputs.
Result
Example Data Table
Sample entries demonstrate different bands. Replace with your dataset or import CSV.
| # | Label | TG (mmol/L) | HDL (mmol/L) | Ratio | Band |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Check A | 1.10 | 1.20 | 0.92 | Optimal |
| 2 | Check B | 1.80 | 1.00 | 1.80 | Good |
| 3 | Check C | 3.00 | 1.20 | 2.50 | Borderline |
| 4 | Check D | 4.20 | 1.20 | 3.50 | High |
Scenario Compare
| # | Label | Unit | TG (mmol/L) | HDL (mmol/L) | Ratio | Band |
|---|
Notes & Guidance
- Higher ratios generally indicate a more atherogenic lipid profile.
- Lifestyle changes may improve triglycerides and HDL values.
- Consult a clinician for personalized evaluation and treatment decisions.
1) Reference & Conversions (mmol/L ↔ mg/dL)
| Analyte | mmol/L → mg/dL | mg/dL → mmol/L | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Triglycerides | × 88.57 | ÷ 88.57 | Factor derived from molecular weight assumptions. |
| HDL Cholesterol | × 38.67 | ÷ 38.67 | Common clinical reporting factor. |
Ensure both values use the same unit when calculating the ratio.
2) Bands Summary (Current Settings)
| Band | Condition | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Optimal | < | Lower ratio often considered more favorable. |
| Good | < | Generally acceptable for many individuals. |
| Borderline | < | Intermediate; review lifestyle and labs over time. |
| High | ≥ | Higher atherogenic potential is possible. |
3) Worked Examples (mmol/L)
| Case | TG | HDL | Ratio | Band (current) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Example 1 | 1.2 | 1.4 | 0.86 | Optimal |
| Example 2 | 2.0 | 1.1 | 1.82 | Good |
| Example 3 | 3.1 | 1.3 | 2.38 | Borderline |
| Example 4 | 3.8 | 1.0 | 3.80 | High |
Band labels will adapt automatically when you change custom thresholds.
FAQs
1) What is the triglycerides to HDL ratio?
The ratio equals triglycerides divided by HDL using identical units. Lower is generally better. It indicates lipid balance and insulin resistance risk. Use it only alongside professional evaluation, never as a stand‑alone diagnostic decision.
2) Which units should I use?
Use mmol/L in many countries; mg/dL elsewhere. The calculator converts automatically. Always ensure triglycerides and HDL are in the same unit before calculating the ratio to avoid misleading results and incorrect interpretation.
3) Do I need a fasting sample?
Fasting improves comparability, particularly for triglycerides. Non‑fasting results may be acceptable if your laboratory recommends them. Follow your clinician’s instructions for sample timing and consider repeat testing when results conflict with clinical context.
4) What thresholds define optimal or high?
Defaults: Optimal <1.5, Good <2.0, Borderline <3.0, High ≥3.0. You can enable custom bands to reflect local guidance or individual targets. Always interpret thresholds within broader cardiovascular risk assessment frameworks.
5) How should I interpret a high ratio?
A higher ratio may suggest a more atherogenic profile or insulin resistance. Discuss lifestyle measures, secondary causes, and medications with your clinician. Use the ratio alongside full lipid profile, metabolic markers, and clinical history.
6) Can lifestyle changes improve the ratio?
Often yes. Useful strategies include weight management, limiting refined carbohydrates, moderating alcohol, prioritizing unsaturated fats, regular physical activity, and treating secondary causes under medical guidance. Recheck labs after sustained changes.