Regular Blood Lipid Testing Is An Important Part Of Assuring Heart And Artery Health

Blood lipid testing used to be reserved for only those who were obviously overweight, over 40, had a family history of heart disease, or had experienced a heart attack or stroke. But as new information has started to emerge about how early plaque deposits can start to form (age 8) the importance of gaining an understanding of the breakdown provided by blood lipid testing is starting to be recognized.

There are four and possibly five types of blood fat readings blood lipid testing measures; they are cholesterol, triglycerides, VLDL, LDL, and HDL. Perhaps a brief definition of each might be in order.

Cholesterol: A fat like substance that is an essential component of cells but can also lead to atherosclerosis. It is a lipid produce internally by the liver (75%) and also consumed through diet.

Triglycerides: These are early stage blood fats that are the building blocks for VLDL which are derived primarily from food sources.

VLDL: When a molecule produced in the intestines known as a chylomicron makes it way to the liver it emerges as a very large fatty blob of a molecule that is referred to as VLDL or a very low density lipoprotein. As makes it way out into the body it sheds cholesterol along the way passing through the IDL stage and eventually ending up as what we know as bad cholesterol or LDL.

LDL: LDL stands for low density lipoprotein and is a leaner version of our not so friendly VLDL molecule. It transports cholesterol through the smooth interior lining of our arteries possibly damaging them along the way.

HDL: Know as a high density lipoprotein HDL is the last evolution of what was once a tiny chylomicron. It is primarily protein, does not travel through the arteries, and picks up any excess cholesterol taking it to the liver and intestines for disposal.

The blood lipid testing procedure

Prior to the blood lipid testing you will be asked to abstain from eating and drinking alcohol along with briefly not taking certain prescription medications and supplements.

Your doctor will provide you with a list of do’s and don’ts which are important to follow very closely so your test results will be accurate.

The levels of lipids in the blood are measured by drawing blood from a vein and the subsequent blood testing; most likely the arm or back of the hand will be the areas from which blood is taken. Generally around 20 milliliters of blood will be drawn. Be sure and tell your technician beforehand if you have small or damaged veins, allowing him/her to use a special needle for the procedure.

Your blood lipid testing results will come back in milliliters. Any cholesterol reading over 240 will be considered high, if your LDL reading is under 130 your VLDL reading will be considered to be acceptable, any triglyceride reading over 450 will be considered dangerously high, and HDL or good cholesterol should come in about 50, with below 40 considered problematic.

What supplements can I take to improve my blood lipid testing results

The supplements that seem to be seem to be the best choices for lowering blood lipids are omega 3 fish oil and natural cholesterol reduction supplements containing either policosanol or guggul gum extract.

Beside supplementation a low saturated fat diet, exercise, steering clear of cigarette smoke, and effective weight management also can help.

By: R.D. Hawkins

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R.D. Hawkins is an enthusiastic advocate for the use of natural cholesterol health and natural living with over 10 years experience in the field. To learn more about cholesterol and natural remedies to promote cholesterol health visit Lowered Cholesterol.com