30 Seconds SummaryCholesterol: Going Deeper than the Numbers
- Cholesterol is essential for cell and hormone functions in the body, primarily produced by the liver, and also derived from animal-based foods.
- Cholesterol is carried through the body by lipoproteins which include HDL (good cholesterol), LDL (bad cholesterol), VLDL, Triglycerides, and others like Lp(a) and Remnant lipoprotein, each varying in their impact on health.
- Specialty lab tests, not common in regular checks, are needed to measure specific cholesterol particles, such as Lp(a) and genetic markers like ApoE, which influence cholesterol management.
- Genetic variations in the ApoE gene, found in chromosome 19, can affect lipid metabolism and risk factors for diseases, including Alzheimer's.
- Lifestyle adjustments such as regular exercise, a diet low in saturated fats and high in monounsaturated fats and omega-3s, moderate alcohol consumption, and increased fiber intake can influence cholesterol levels positively.
- Consultation with healthcare providers and dietitians is recommended to tailor cholesterol management plans based on individual health statuses and genetic predispositions.
Biolayne
Erik Bustillo