Canadian lab reports show cholesterol in mmol/L; American sources use mg/dL. Cholesterol and triglycerides use different conversion factors, so this tool lets you pick the right one and convert instantly.
For reference only — not medical advice. Factors: cholesterol 1 mmol/L = 38.67 mg/dL; triglycerides 1 mmol/L = 88.57 mg/dL.
Cholesterol Target Ranges (Canada)
General reference values for adults. Your personal targets depend on your cardiovascular risk — your doctor sets them.
| Measure | Desirable (mmol/L) | Equivalent (mg/dL) |
|---|---|---|
| Total cholesterol | below 5.2 | below 201 |
| LDL (“bad”) | below 3.5 | below 135 |
| HDL (“good”) | above 1.0 (men) / 1.3 (women) | above 39 / 50 |
| Triglycerides | below 1.7 | below 150 |
Why Two Different Factors?
Cholesterol and triglycerides are different molecules with different molecular weights, so they convert differently:
- Cholesterol: mmol/L × 38.67 = mg/dL
- Triglycerides: mmol/L × 88.57 = mg/dL
Using the wrong factor gives a wrong number — that is why this converter separates them. Learn more about LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and the full blood lipids test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 5.2 mmol/L cholesterol high? A total cholesterol of 5.2 mmol/L (about 201 mg/dL) sits at the upper edge of the desirable range for many adults. Interpretation depends on your LDL, HDL, and overall heart-disease risk.
Can I use the same factor for triglycerides? No. Triglycerides use 88.57, not 38.67. This tool switches the factor automatically when you select “Triglycerides.”