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Just exactly why is it that HDL (high density lipoprotein) is so good for you, but LDL (low density lipoprotein) so bad?
COMPONENTS OF THE VAP TEST include direct measured LDL, HDL, VLDL, TC with TG and LDL/HDL RATIO and TC/HDL RATIO. Additional important lipoprotein risk factors include:
Lp(a) The "heart attack" cholesterol. A direct risk factor for CAD and high levels are a predictor of stroke and post angioplasty rest enosis in many cases.
HDL2 The "best" cholesterol. Low HDL2 is a risk factor for CAD in patients with normal cholesterol.
HDL3 The least protective HDL. TC/lipid panel don't distinguish between HDL2 and HDL3
IDL "Bad" non-LDL cholesterol. Independent risk factor for CAD.
VLDL3 A predictor of the severity of CAD. The most dense (bad) element of triglyceride.
Pattern A, B or A/B "A" is the (good) atherogenic of the LDL subclasses, "B" is an independent risk factor for CAD—the most atherogenic (bad) of the HDL sub classes and "A/B" is intermediate in atherogenicity
Originally posted by Monique
Interesting, I am not a clinical biochemist so I don't know how cholesterol testing is routinely done? And I couldn't find how this VAP test does it and why it is better?
Monique said:Just exactly why is it that HDL (high density lipoprotein) is so good for you, but LDL (low density lipoprotein) so bad?
LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in the walls of your arteries, leading to atherosclerosis and increasing the risk of heart disease. HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, on the other hand, is often called “good” cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from your arteries.
Elevated levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease, while higher levels of HDL cholesterol can lower the risk. This is because LDL can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, while HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the arteries.
The American Heart Association recommends keeping LDL cholesterol levels below 100 mg/dL and HDL cholesterol levels above 60 mg/dL. However, the optimal levels may vary depending on individual risk factors and overall health.
Yes, lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and not smoking can help improve your LDL and HDL cholesterol levels. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to help manage your cholesterol levels.
In addition to lifestyle habits, genetics and certain medical conditions can also play a role in your cholesterol levels. It is important to regularly monitor your cholesterol levels and work with your doctor to develop a plan to manage them.