Cholesterol Mg/Dl To Mmol/L Conversion Chart
Cholesterol levels can be measured in two different systems: milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L). In the United States, cholesterol levels are often measured in mg/dL, while in other countries, mmol/L is the standard unit of measurement. If you have your cholesterol levels in one unit and need to convert them to the other, you can use a cholesterol conversion chart.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell of the body. It is important for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids that help digest fat. However, too much cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
What are mg/dL and mmol/L?
Mg/dL and mmol/L are units used to measure the amount of cholesterol in the blood. Mg/dL stands for milligrams per deciliter, while mmol/L stands for millimoles per liter. In the United States, cholesterol levels are often measured in mg/dL, while in other countries, mmol/L is the standard unit of measurement.
Cholesterol Conversion Chart
To convert your cholesterol levels from mg/dL to mmol/L, you can use the following formula:
mmol/L = mg/dL ÷ 38.67
For example, if your cholesterol level is 200 mg/dL, the calculation would be:
mmol/L = 200 ÷ 38.67 = 5.17
Therefore, your cholesterol level in mmol/L would be 5.17.
To convert your cholesterol levels from mmol/L to mg/dL, you can use the following formula:
mg/dL = mmol/L × 38.67
For example, if your cholesterol level is 5.17 mmol/L, the calculation would be:
mg/dL = 5.17 × 38.67 = 200.1
Therefore, your cholesterol level in mg/dL would be 200.1.
Why convert cholesterol levels?
If you have your cholesterol levels measured in one unit and need to convert them to the other, it is important to use a cholesterol conversion chart to ensure accuracy. This is especially important if you are traveling to a country where the standard unit of measurement is different from what you are used to.
In addition, if you are monitoring your cholesterol levels, it is important to use the same unit of measurement each time to accurately track changes over time.
What are normal cholesterol levels?
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that adults age 20 or older have their cholesterol levels checked every four to six years. Normal cholesterol levels vary depending on age, gender, and other factors.
According to the AHA, desirable cholesterol levels are:
- Total cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL or less than 5.2 mmol/L
- LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol): Less than 100 mg/dL or less than 2.6 mmol/L
- HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol): 40 mg/dL or higher or 1 mmol/L or higher
- Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL or less than 1.7 mmol/L
If your cholesterol levels are outside of the desirable range, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, medication, or both.
Conclusion
Cholesterol levels can be measured in mg/dL or mmol/L. To convert cholesterol levels from one unit to the other, you can use a cholesterol conversion chart. It is important to use the same unit of measurement each time you monitor your cholesterol levels to accurately track changes over time. Normal cholesterol levels vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. If your cholesterol levels are outside of the desirable range, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, medication, or both.