For decades, we've been told that high cholesterol is the enemy. Doctors prescribe statins based on total cholesterol numbers, and patients dutifully avoid eggs and saturated fat. But what if everything we've been told about cholesterol is wrong?
Traditional cholesterol tests may not be telling you the whole truth about your cardiovascular risk
The Problem with Traditional Cholesterol Testing
Standard lipid panels measure total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. But these numbers tell us very little about actual cardiovascular risk. Here's why:
1. LDL Particle Size Matters More Than LDL Number
Not all LDL particles are created equal. Small, dense LDL particles are far more dangerous than large, fluffy ones. You could have "high" LDL but if it's mostly large particles, your risk is actually low.
2. ApoB is the Real Culprit
Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) measures the actual number of atherogenic particles in your blood. This is what actually causes plaque buildup, not the cholesterol content of those particles.
3. The Triglyceride/HDL Ratio
This simple ratio is one of the best predictors of heart disease risk. A ratio above 2.0 indicates small, dense LDL particles and insulin resistance.
What Progressive Cardiologists Test Instead
Leading cardiologists now focus on advanced lipid testing that includes:
- LDL particle number (LDL-P)
- ApoB levels
- Small dense LDL percentage
- Lipoprotein(a)
- Inflammatory markers like hs-CRP
The Real Causes of Heart Disease
Instead of focusing solely on cholesterol, we should address the root causes:
- Insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction
- Chronic inflammation
- Oxidative stress
- Poor gut health
- Nutrient deficiencies
What You Can Do
If you're over 50, demand better testing. Ask your doctor for:
- NMR LipoProfile or CardioIQ advanced lipid panel
- ApoB measurement
- hs-CRP for inflammation
- Fasting insulin and HOMA-IR
- Vitamin D levels
Don't let outdated cholesterol guidelines dictate your health decisions. The science has evolved, and it's time your healthcare did too.