Cholesterol and triglyceride converter
Choose cholesterol or triglycerides, pick the unit of your lab result and type the value. The two substances use different factors, which is why a single mg/dL to mmol/L number would be wrong for one of them. This converts units only and does not interpret results.
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How to use it
- Choose Cholesterol (total, LDL or HDL) or Triglycerides.
- Pick the unit your result is in.
- Type the value; the converted figure appears below.
- Cholesterol: mg/dL = mmol/L × 38.67
- Triglycerides: mg/dL = mmol/L × 88.57
To convert from mg/dL, divide by the same factor.
Worked examples
- Total cholesterol 5.2 mmol/L = 5.2 × 38.67 = 201.1 mg/dL.
- Triglycerides 150 mg/dL = 150 ÷ 88.57 = 1.69 mmol/L.
Notes
Triglyceride factors vary slightly between sources because fats have mixed molar masses; 88.57 is the commonly used value. Lab reports usually print their own reference ranges, which are the ones to follow. Nothing here is medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert cholesterol from mmol/L to mg/dL?
Multiply by 38.67. For example 5.2 mmol/L × 38.67 = 201.1 mg/dL. To convert back, divide mg/dL by 38.67.
Why are triglycerides converted with a different factor?
The factor depends on the molar mass of the molecule. Cholesterol is about 386.65 g/mol, giving 38.67, while triglycerides are about 885.7 g/mol on average, giving the usual factor of 88.57.
Does the cholesterol factor apply to LDL and HDL?
Yes. Total cholesterol, LDL and HDL are all measured as cholesterol, so they share the factor 38.67.
Is my result good or bad?
This tool does not judge results. Desirable levels depend on your age, other risk factors and your doctor's assessment, so talk to a doctor about what your numbers mean.