Keeping a close eye on your cholesterol levels is crucial for maintaining heart health. If you’re looking for an easy and convenient way to do this, an at-home cholesterol test kit can be a great solution. These kits offer privacy, and convenience, and put you in control of your health monitoring.
Through my experience testing numerous DNA kits, I focused on factors like accuracy, ease of use, speed of results, and customer service. From my thorough examination, I shortlisted the best DNA kits specifically for cholesterol testing.
From this list, I highly recommend LetsGetChecked for at-home cholesterol testing. The kit is straightforward to use, the results are accurate, and you receive them in a timely manner. Moreover, LetsGetChecked provides excellent customer support, making it an ideal choice for managing your cholesterol levels from the comfort of your own home.
Get Started With LetsGetChecked!
Short on time? Here are the best home cholesterol tests:
- LetsGetChecked – Best overall with cholesterol and cardiovascular health testing, plus subscription options.
- 23andMe – Analyzes 2000+ genetic markers for LDL cholesterol as well as 24 variants that indicate high risk of developing bad cholesterol.
- Everlywell – Comprehensive cholesterol test with actionable advice and further resources to improve health.
- MyLAB Box – Large choice of cholesterol tests, free follow-up support, and heart health screening.
- HealthLabs – Wide variety of individual tests for checking your cholesterol levels.
What We Look For in the Best Home Cholesterol DNA Tests
When it comes to finding the best home cholesterol DNA tests, there are a few factors that are important. Yes, we made sure every test on this list actually tells you about your lipids levels, but there are other important areas to look at, too.
- Relevant biomarkers: Each test assesses important biomarkers including cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL).
- Accuracy: We made sure every test can accurately and reliably assess your cholesterol levels so you can rely on your results.
- Extra information: We found a variety of tests that offer more than just cholesterol testing. Most screen cardiovascular and heart health, and even diabetes.
- Time to results: Most of the tests on this list can turn your results around in just a few days, so you’re not waiting long at all.
- Support: We also looked for tests that offer on-hand support, whether that’s through a phone call with a physician or links to further reading, so you know what to do next.
- Value for money: It’s important you get what you pay for. And that you can find an at-home test that’s actually budget-friendly.
Best At-Home Cholesterol Test Kits Reviewed
1. LetsGetChecked – Best Overall For Accurate, Comprehensive Cholesterol Testing
- Two cholesterol tests available with screening for all relative biomarkers
- Subscription options for regular cholesterol testing
- Free support from LetsGetChecked’s nurses
- Results in 2-5 days
LetsGetChecked stands out as my top choice overall, particularly for its comprehensive approach to cardiovascular health assessment. It offers two cholesterol tests, providing a thorough overview of your heart health.
The first option is LetsGetChecked’s specialized cholesterol kit. This kit screens for all the essential biomarkers associated with cholesterol levels, including HDL, LDL, HDL % of total cholesterol, total triglycerides, and overall cholesterol levels.
The second test is the heart and diabetes test, which still analyzes your cholesterol, HDL, and LDL levels but also identifies pre-diabetes or diabetes.
Both tests require a quick finger-prick blood sample, with free return shipping to the lab. And your report takes only 2-5 days.
In your report, you can see a description of each biomarker tested, with your exact levels in comparison to normal ranges. These are color-coded so you can see quickly whether there’s anything to be worried about.
You also get free access to 24/7 support from LetsGetChecked’s nurses to discuss your results. They call you to talk about your report and advise of next steps.
For regular monitoring of your cholesterol levels, you can sign up to LetsGetChecked’s subscription service and get kits delivered to you every 3, 6, or 12 months. It also saves you money.
Get Comprehensive Cholesterol Testing with LetsGetChecked!
2. 23andMe — Insights into Cholesterol Management
- Actionable tips and strategies
- FDA approved
- Messaging with healthcare professionals
- Virtual health consultations
- Results in 3 to 4 weeks
23andMe offers tools that allow you to explore your genetic predisposition for cholesterol levels, particularly focusing on LDL (bad cholesterol) and HDL (good cholesterol). Through its Health + Ancestry Service, incorporated in the 23andMe+ Premium membership, it provides detailed genetic reports that estimate your likelihood of developing conditions like high LDL cholesterol or low HDL cholesterol.
It analyzes your DNA to estimate the genetic risk of having high LDL cholesterol, utilizing over 2,000 genetic markers. Additionally, it offers insights into Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH), a condition characterized by very high LDL cholesterol levels due to specific genetic variants.
It includes a specialized report on FH, looking at 24 genetic variants that could indicate a higher risk of developing this condition. This is crucial because FH can lead to premature heart disease if not managed properly. While it provides genetic screening, 23andMe emphasizes that these reports should complement regular medical check-ups and not replace traditional diagnostic methods. Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and smoking also play significant roles in managing cholesterol levels.
3. Everlywell – Best For Next Steps on Cholesterol Health
- Analyzes HDL, LDL, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels
- Resources and information available to help you interpret your results
- Subscription options for ongoing health testing
- Results in 2 days
Everlywell’s home cholesterol test screens three of the most important biomarkers – total cholesterol levels, HDL, and calculated LDL. It also analyzes your triglyceride levels.
You get ongoing support through access to a wealth of resources and reading materials so you can understand what your results mean for your cardiovascular health.
It’s quick and easy to take the test, with a finger-prick blood sample. Your kit comes with detailed instructions, equipment, and a pre-paid envelope to return your sample. It’s free shipping to your address, too.
Your report only takes a couple of days and comes with easy-to-understand results. It shows you whether your levels sit in the normal, low, or elevated range.
As well as giving you exact numbers, it tells you what the numbers should be for normal ranges to help you interpret your results further and know where you need to work towards.
Like my top choice, Everlywell also has a subscription option for ongoing health testing. You can get deliveries each month for any qualifying test, it doesn’t have to be the cholesterol kit.
Assess Your Cardiovascular Health with Everlywell!
4. MyLAB Box – Best For Combining Cholesterol Test Choice
- Analyzes cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, and LDL
- Combine cholesterol screening with heart health and aging
- Free telephone call with physician to discuss your results
- Results in 2-5 days
If it’s choice you’re after, MyLAB Box – is a good option. It has a few different cholesterol tests, which means you can combine your cardiovascular health with other aspects of your wellness.
There is the standard cholesterol and lipids test that analyzes cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, and LDL levels. These are categorized into normal, borderline, high, and very high levels so you can see whether you should be concerned.
MyLAB Box has a heart health test on offer, too. This tests for all the biomarkers in the cholesterol test, as well as high-sensitivity C-reactive proteins (hsCRP) and glycated hemoglobin (hbA1c), so you can see whether you might have an elevated risk of heart disease and associated problems.
Or, you can choose to combine cholesterol testing with aging in an all-in-one kit. This assesses your triglyceride and cholesterol levels, but it also looks at other hormones, including testosterone and progesterone. It even analyzes your thyroid function.
All kits are painless and easy to take, usually requiring a small finger-prick blood sample. Your results are ready quick, in 2-5 days.
If there’s anything concerning in your results, a physician calls you for a consultation and advice on next steps. It’s completely free. MyLAB Box also accepts HSA/FSA cards, so you may be able to cut the cost of your test, too.
Test Cholesterol & Aging With MyLabBox!
5. HealthLabs – Best For Individual Tests
- Individual cholesterol test options and comprehensive bundles
- Assesses HDL, LDL, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels
- CLIA-certified testing labs
- Results in 1-2 days
HealthLabs has a huge choice of cholesterol tests. You can choose from three bundle kits that assess all biomarkers including triglyceride, total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL.
The bundle kits also analyze your cardiovascular health and can tell you whether you’re at risk of certain heart problems, such as heart attacks and stroke.
If you prefer, you can choose individual kits that look at a few different biomarkers, so it’s a good idea if there’s only one thing you’re concerned about and you want to save money.
The lipid and cholesterol test screens overall cholesterol and triglyceride levels at a very low cost. Your report tells you what your levels are, but it doesn’t go into much more detail other than that.
It only takes 1-2 days to get your results, but you don’t actually take the test at home. You need to visit one of HealthLabs centers to give your sample there, but it’s still confidential and they’re CLIA-certified.
Assess Your Hearth Health with HealthLabs!
How Accurate Are Home Cholesterol DNA Tests?
At-home cholesterol DNA kits are well-known for their exceptional accuracy, typically providing results with a precision rate of 95% or higher. This level of accuracy meets the rigorous standards commonly upheld by healthcare professionals.
However, it’s important to understand that while these kits are valuable for assessing risk factors related to heart conditions by measuring cholesterol levels, they should not substitute for a medical diagnosis. To receive a comprehensive health assessment and personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs, it’s essential to discuss the results of your at-home test with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can conduct a thorough evaluation and recommend appropriate next steps based on your overall health context.
At-Home Cholesterol Test Kits: Important Things to Note
It’s no fun finding a budget-friendly test, only to be hit with extra costs along the way. Whether it’s processing, shipping, or support fees, I looked into all the companies on this list so you know what to expect.
Actually, I found that all tests on this list offer free shipping. Each kit also comes with a prepaid envelope, so you don’t need to pay to return it either. You also don’t have to pay any extra for processing your sample or producing your report.
The tests that offer follow-up support with a physician all do so for free. Everlywell does offer a free call with a nurse, but only for diagnostic results such as STI tests, so you don’t get that luxury with cholesterol testing, unfortunately.
You can get caught out in other areas, too. Remember that with HealthLabs, you have to visit one of their testing centers to submit your sample. So if you really want an at-home test, it’s not for you.
Make sure you always read the instructions carefully, as this can affect the reliability of your sample, too. Follow them step-by-step so you don’t damage the quality of your sample, as this could lead to an inaccurate result.
Understanding Your Results
If you choose an individual kit, a cholesterol test usually analyzes lipids. A more comprehensive test might look at your overall cardiovascular health as well as cholesterol levels.
Here’s what to expect from your test:
- An analysis of your triglyceride, cholesterol, HDL, and LDL levels
- Whether your lipids levels are high, normal, or low
- How your levels compare to average/normal levels and what to do next
- Whether you’re at risk of developing related conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, or heart attacks
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a vital substance that plays various roles in the body. It is a fat-like substance that travels through the bloodstream in the form of lipoproteins. Here are some of its important functions:
- Generation of vitamin D
- Production of bile acids
- Production of hormones that regulate various bodily processes.
While the body naturally produces cholesterol, it is also present in certain foods. Processed meats, full-fat dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, as well as seafood such as octopus and prawn, contain cholesterol.
Cholesterol is categorized into two types: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL, often referred to as “bad cholesterol,” constitutes the majority of cholesterol in the body. High levels of LDL can lead to the buildup of cholesterol in the blood vessels, causing them to narrow. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, hampers blood flow and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. It is also associated with hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, and other cardiovascular issues.
On the other hand, HDL, known as “good cholesterol,” acts as a protector. It collects the excess cholesterol from the arteries and transports it back to the liver, where it can be eliminated from the body. By doing so, HDL helps prevent the accumulation of cholesterol in the arteries, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
In addition to measuring cholesterol levels, triglycerides are also assessed in a lipid profile. Triglycerides are a type of fat obtained from foods like butter and oils. The body converts these calories into triglycerides, storing them in fat cells to be utilized for energy as needed. Elevated levels of triglycerides, along with high LDL levels, are associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
It is important to maintain a healthy balance of cholesterol levels by adopting a well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, and, if necessary, taking prescribed medications. Regular check-ups and lipid profile tests can help identify any abnormalities in cholesterol and triglyceride levels, allowing for timely intervention to mitigate potential risks to heart health.
When to Take a Cholesterol Test
Knowing when to take a cholesterol test is crucial for monitoring and maintaining heart health. Here are some guidelines to help determine when it is necessary to undergo a cholesterol test:
- Age and Gender: It is generally recommended that adults aged 20 years or older have their cholesterol levels checked at least once every five years. However, the frequency may vary depending on individual risk factors and medical history. Men over the age of 45 and women over the age of 55 are more prone to developing high cholesterol.
- Risk Factors: Individuals with specific risk factors for high cholesterol should consider more frequent cholesterol testing. These risk factors include:
- Family History: If close relatives, such as parents or siblings, have a history of high cholesterol or heart disease, it increases the likelihood of an individual developing the same conditions.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels.
- Unhealthy Diet: Consuming foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can lead to increased cholesterol levels.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activity can negatively impact cholesterol levels.
- Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and lowers HDL (“good”) cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease.
- Chronic Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, and kidney disease, can affect cholesterol levels.
- Existing Health Conditions: If an individual has been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes, they should have their cholesterol levels tested more frequently. This allows healthcare providers to monitor and manage cholesterol levels effectively.
Symptoms of high cholesterol are not always apparent, which is why routine testing is important. However, in some cases, high cholesterol can manifest through the following symptoms:
- Xanthomas: These are fatty deposits that develop under the skin, particularly around the eyes, elbows, knees, or buttocks. Xanthomas may appear as yellowish bumps or nodules.
- Xanthelasma: These are yellowish cholesterol deposits that form on the eyelids. They can appear as flat, soft, or slightly raised patches.
- Arcus Senilis: This refers to a whitish or grayish ring that forms around the outer edge of the cornea. It can be an indicator of high cholesterol in younger individuals.
- Chest Pain or Angina: High cholesterol levels can contribute to the development of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to chest pain or discomfort, known as angina.
- Shortness of Breath: Narrowing of the arteries due to cholesterol buildup can restrict blood flow to the heart and lungs, resulting in difficulty breathing.
It’s important to note that in many cases, high cholesterol does not cause noticeable symptoms. Therefore, regular cholesterol testing is crucial for early detection and appropriate management of cholesterol levels. Consulting a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance on when to undergo cholesterol testing based on individual risk factors and medical history.
Best At-Home Cholesterol Test Kits: Comparison Table
| Areas Tested | Free Shipping | Free Support | Time to Results | Starting Price | |
| LetsGetChecked | Cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, hbA1c, pre-diabetes, diabetes | ✔ | ✔ | 2-5 days | $89.00 |
| 23andMe | Cholesterol, HDL, LDL, FH, and more | ✔ | ✔ | 4-6 weeks | $199.00 |
| Everlywell | Cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides | ✔ | ✘ | 2 days | $49.00 |
| MyLAB Box | Cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, hbA1c, and hsCRP | ✔ | ✔ | 2-5 days | $79.00 |
| HealthLabs | Cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and hsCRP | ✘ | ✘ | 1-2 days | $65.00 |
Take Control of Your Cholesterol Health
Using an at-home cholesterol DNA test, you can gain valuable insights into your cardiovascular health and lipid levels without the need for a doctor’s visit.
All the tests mentioned in this list offer excellent choices for comprehensive cholesterol information, speedy results, and actionable reports.
For the best cholesterol test, choose LetsGetChecked, because it’s comprehensive, budget-friendly, and comes with extras like free support and testing for diabetes.
Now you’ve learned about your cholesterol, why not take DNA testing further? If you’re interested in seeing the best tests for assessing your overall health, check out our roundup.
FAQs
How do you take a cholesterol test?
An at-home cholesterol DNA test usually requires a finger-prick blood sample. It’s relatively quick and painless, so there’s no need to worry. Your kit comes with detailed instructions to guide you in providing your sample correctly.
How often should I take a cholesterol test?
The frequency of cholesterol testing varies based on age, typically recommended every four to six years. However, if you have notable risk factors like an elevated risk of heart disease or diabetes, you may opt for more frequent testing. Several companies, such as LetsGetChecked, provide subscription options, allowing cholesterol tests to be conveniently delivered to your doorstep, eliminating the need to worry about it.
What are normal cholesterol levels on a test?
Levels can sometimes vary. However, as a general rule, the following levels are considered average:
- Total cholesterol: 200 mg or less
- Triglycerides: 150 mg or less
- LDL: 100 mg or less
- HDL: 60 mg or less
Does eating affect a cholesterol test?
Food can influence your results. When you eat, it usually causes your triglyceride levels to rise for several hours, especially if you eat a high-fat meal. That’s why most tests tell you not to eat anything within a specific time frame before taking your test.
