Sample type: Blood
Preparation: Fasting (not eating or drinking anything except water) for 8-12 hours is recommended. 

This lipid panel (or lipid profile) blood test measures your cholesterol and triglycerides levels to assess your risk for cardiovascular diseases. The lipid profile test works by measuring total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, cholesterol/HDL ratio, and non-HDL. Regular lipid panel testing plays a key role in maintaining both general and cardiovascular health. If the results show you have higher than normal levels of cholesterol, you and your healthcare provider can work together to determine next steps.