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VLDL Cholesterol (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol in your blood. VLDL is a type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol and triglycerides to your tissues.

Quick summary

["VLDL cholesterol helps assess your risk for heart disease and high blood cholesterol."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56777-6
Short code
VLDL/LDL SerPl
Synonyms
VLDL/LDL SerPl
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
100
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83721
SNOMED
113079007
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does VLDL Cholesterol Represent?

VLDL cholesterol is a form of lipoprotein that transports fats (specifically triglycerides and cholesterol) from your liver to other parts of your body. While VLDL is important for delivering essential nutrients, high levels can contribute to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing your risk of cardiovascular issues.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order a VLDL cholesterol test as part of a broader cholesterol panel to evaluate your overall lipid profile. It helps assess risk factors for heart disease, especially when combined with other tests like LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to measure VLDL cholesterol levels using a specialized laboratory method.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Elevated VLDL cholesterol can result from diet high in saturated fats, obesity, diabetes, or certain genetic conditions. Low levels may occur with liver disease or malabsorption issues.

Reference range

Optimal: <100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

Fasting for 12-14 hours preferred. Water is permitted. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

VLDL Cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

How does VLDL cholesterol affect my health?
High VLDL cholesterol can increase your risk of developing atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries) and related conditions like heart disease or stroke. While VLDL itself isn’t as directly harmful as LDL cholesterol, it contributes to overall cardiovascular risk when levels are elevated.
What should I do if my VLDL cholesterol is high?
If your test results show high VLDL cholesterol, your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes such as a heart-healthy diet (low in saturated fats), regular physical activity, and weight management. They may also prescribe medications to help lower your cholesterol levels.
Can VLDL cholesterol be lowered naturally?
Yes, several natural strategies may help reduce VLDL cholesterol, including eating more soluble fiber (found in oats, beans, and vegetables), increasing omega-3 fatty acids (from fish, flaxseeds), and avoiding excessive alcohol and sugary foods.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy