What is the VLDL Cholesterol test?

The VLDL (Very Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol test measures the amount of VLDL particles in the blood. VLDL is produced by the liver and primarily carries triglycerides to tissues, making it closely linked to fat metabolism.

Unlike LDL cholesterol, VLDL is not usually measured directly but calculated from triglyceride levels in standard lipid testing. Elevated VLDL is associated with increased cardiovascular risk and metabolic conditions.

Clinically, this test is used as part of lipid and heart health assessment, especially when triglycerides are elevated or metabolic syndrome is suspected.

Why do I need a test for VLDL Cholesterol?

High VLDL cholesterol levels indicate excess circulating triglycerides, which can contribute to plaque formation in arteries. This increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular complications.

VLDL testing is particularly important for individuals with obesity, diabetes, insulin resistance, or a family history of cardiovascular disease. It also helps guide lifestyle and dietary interventions.

You may benefit from a VLDL test if you experience or have:

• High triglyceride levels
• Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance
• Obesity or central weight gain
• High-fat diet or excessive alcohol intake
• Family history of heart disease
• Metabolic syndrome

Benefits of the VLDL Cholesterol test

1. Assesses triglyceride-related risk
   Provides insight into lipid transport and fat metabolism.
2. Supports cardiovascular risk evaluation
   Elevated VLDL is linked to atherosclerosis.
3. Complements standard lipid testing
   Adds context beyond total and LDL cholesterol.
4. Identifies metabolic imbalance
   Useful in insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.
5. Guides lifestyle modification
   Helps tailor diet and exercise recommendations.
6. Supports diabetes risk assessment
   Elevated VLDL often accompanies poor glucose control.
7. Monitors response to treatment
   Tracks improvement after dietary or medical intervention.
8. Improves preventive care decisions
   Helps identify risk before clinical disease develops.

Step-by-step – How we offer this test

Option 1: Clinic-based blood test (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• Attend your appointment
• A clinician draws a blood sample
• Results are analysed and reported

Option 2: Home or hotel visit (UK-wide)

• A qualified phlebotomist comes to your location
• Blood sample taken in your home or hotel
• No need to travel
• Same laboratory processing and reporting

Your results explained

Low VLDL Cholesterol levels

Low VLDL levels generally indicate low triglyceride transport and are not usually a cause for concern.

UK reference range (low):

• < 0.1 mmol/L

Low levels are typically associated with healthy lipid metabolism.

Normal VLDL Cholesterol levels

Normal levels suggest balanced triglyceride transport and lower cardiovascular risk.

UK reference range (normal):

• 0.1 – 0.5 mmol/L

Within this range, VLDL-related risk is considered low.

High VLDL Cholesterol levels

High VLDL levels indicate elevated triglycerides and increased cardiovascular and metabolic risk.

UK reference range (high):

• > 0.5 mmol/L

High levels are associated with obesity, diabetes, excess alcohol intake, and fatty liver disease.