Cholesterol Unit Converter
Convert between mg/dL and mmol/L units easily
Desirable: <200 mg/dL / <5.18 mmol/L
Optimal: ≥60 mg/dL / ≥1.55 mmol/L
Optimal: <100 mg/dL / <2.59 mmol/L
Normal: <150 mg/dL / <1.69 mmol/L
Quick Reference Guide:
Understanding Your Numbers: Cholesterol Units Converter (mg/dL vs. mmol/L)
Receiving your blood work results can be stressful, especially when the numbers don't look like what you expected. If you have ever compared your lipid profile with international guidelines or moved to a different country, you might have noticed a major discrepancy in how cholesterol is measured.
This guide explains why these different units exist, how to read them, and how our calculator helps you make sense of your health data.
Why Are There Two Different Units?
In the medical world, the concentration of substances in the blood is measured in two primary ways: by weight or by molecular count.
mg/dL (Milligrams per Deciliter)
This measures the mass of the cholesterol in a specific volume of blood. It is similar to weighing an ingredient for a recipe.
mmol/L (Millimoles per Liter)
This measures the number of molecules in a specific volume of blood. This is the standard unit used in the International System of Units (SI).
The Conversion Logic
Because different molecules have different weights, the conversion formula changes depending on what is being measured.
The Conversion Formulas
For Cholesterol (Total, HDL, LDL):
For Triglycerides:
The formula is different because triglycerides are heavier molecules.
Which Countries Use Which System?
Knowing which unit is used in your region is essential for interpreting your lab reports correctly.
mg/dL Countries
Used primarily in the United States, Germany, and Japan. If you are reading health articles from American medical institutions (like the Mayo Clinic or CDC), the numbers will usually be in this format.
mmol/L Countries
Used in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most other countries in Europe and Asia. This is the international standard.
Reference Ranges: What is Healthy?
Below is a general reference guide to help you compare values. Note: Always consult your doctor for interpretation, as individual targets vary based on age, gender, and risk factors.
| Type of Lipid | Level Description | mg/dL (USA/DE) | mmol/L (Intl/UK/CA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Cholesterol | Desirable | < 200 | < 5.18 |
| Borderline High | 200 - 239 | 5.18 - 6.18 | |
| High | ≥ 240 | ≥ 6.22 | |
| LDL (Bad) Cholesterol | Optimal | < 100 | < 2.59 |
| High | 160 - 189 | 4.15 - 4.90 | |
| HDL (Good) Cholesterol | Low (Risk Factor) | < 40 | < 1.04 |
| High (Protective) | ≥ 60 | ≥ 1.55 |
Why Use This Calculator?
Our conversion tool bridges the gap between these two systems, providing clarity in seconds. You might find this tool useful if:
You are an Expat or Traveler
You live abroad and your new doctor uses a different unit than you are used to.
You Research Online
You are reading a medical study or health forum that uses units different from your local lab report.
You Monitor Trends
You are tracking your health history over time using data from different laboratories.
Family History
When comparing your results with family members who live in different countries.
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Medical Disclaimer
The content provided here and the results from this calculator are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always discuss your lipid profile results with a qualified healthcare professional.