Since the leading cause of death in the U.S. is heart disease, drugs to lower cholesterol levels and high blood pressure are often prescribed, and many patients seem to take them for granted after a certain age. In a general physical examination, only cholesterol and blood pressure numbers tend to determine whether medication is necessary, but other blood tests will reveal more details. Let’s dig into the test.
- Cholesterol Particle
It is said that the general cholesterol test does not give a complete picture, but what is noteworthy is the size of the cholesterol particles and the number of particles. As I have written about in detail in the past, a low LDL particle count (LDL-P) indicates a low cardiovascular risk even if the cholesterol concentration (LDL-C) of low density lipoprotein (LDL), which is considered a bad cholesterol, is high. Conversely, even if LDL-C is normal, a high number of LDL particles is a cause for concern. Another indicator of a more detailed lipid profile is the size of the particles. The smaller the LDL, the more likely it is to cause inflammation in the vascular endothelium, which triggers a chain of events that leads to plaque formation. However, it is recently recognized that there is no problem even if the particle size is small as long as the number of particles is within the normal range.
- Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)
Fats are insoluble in water, so when lipids (triglycerides and cholesterol) are transported in the blood, they need a carrier truck that is compatible with water, and this truck is called a “lipoprotein,” with proteins serving as the lipid-laden truck. And on this truck are not only LDL, high density lipoprotein = HDL (High Density Lipoprotein), which is considered the good one, but also chylomicrons (CM) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL). Apolipoprotein B is a structural protein, one attached to each of the CM, VLDL, medium density lipoprotein (IDL), LDL, and lipoprotein (a) particles. So, it is said that checking apolipoprotein B values encompasses all particles that may cause atherosclerosis.
- Omega 3 fatty acid
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for neurons and other brain cells to make and maintain the trillions of connections used for information processing in the brain. It is also essential for making the energy needed for all cells to function. Omega-3 fatty acids are known as “healthy fats” or “good fats” because of their important role in reducing inflammation and supporting heart health. Its major benefit is its ability to lower neutral fat levels. Too much neutral fat in the blood increases the risk of atherosclerosis, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. In addition, omega-3s raise HDL (good) cholesterol and lower blood pressure. Higher omega-3 levels are associated with a lower risk of heart disease and sudden cardiac death, and studies have recognized that people with an omega-3 index of 8% or higher have the lowest risk of heart-related problems.
- Homocysteine
Homocysteine is an amino acid found in blood. High concentrations can damage the lining of arteries and cause cardiovascular problems such as atherosclerosis (hardening or narrowing of the arteries). The B vitamins help convert homocysteine into other substances the body needs, so when these vitamins are deficient, homocysteine accumulates in the blood. Homocysteine is recommended for consumption as an essential amino acid that enhances liver function, but it is also a dangerous substance that increases the risk of aging and lifestyle-related diseases that cause arteriosclerosis.
- Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is a coenzyme (helps enzymes) with powerful antioxidant properties. It is especially abundant in mitochondria in cells and is very important for producing ATP, the energy that powers cellular functions. And since ATP is especially important for organs that require large amounts of energy, such as the heart, CoQ10 is also said to be abundant within heart muscle. As we age, CoQ10 levels naturally decline. It has also been suggested that certain medications, particularly statins used to lower cholesterol, may further reduce CoQ10 levels. Low CoQ10 levels can also cause problems such as fatigue, muscle weakness, and reduced athletic performance!
In conclusion.
The above blood tests will help you understand the need for CoQ10, vitamin B, and omega-3 fatty acid inoculations, and you can review your lifestyle, including improving your diet, to regain a healthy body that does not rely on medications.
https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/2087335-overview?form=fpf#a4
https://precisionhealthreports.com/ldl-p
Your Body, Your Health, Your Life 