High density lipids are increased. Lipoproteins: meaning, diagnosis, types and norms of HDL, LDL, VLDL

Lipoproteins high density Compounds made up of lipids (fats) and proteins. They provide the processing and removal of fats from the body, so they are called "good cholesterol".

Russian synonyms

HDL, high density lipoproteins, HDL, HDL cholesterol, alpha cholesterol.

SynonymsEnglish

HDL, HDL-C, HDL Cholesterol, High-density lipoprotein cholesterol, High density lipoprotein, Alpha-Lipoprotein Cholesterol.

Research method

Colorimetric photometric method.

Units

mmol/l (millimoles per liter).

What biomaterial can be used for research?

Venous blood.

How to properly prepare for research?

  • Do not eat for 12 hours prior to the study.
  • Eliminate physical and emotional overstrain and do not smoke for 30 minutes before the study.

General information about the study

Cholesterol (CHC, cholesterol) is a fat-like substance that is vital necessary for the body. The correct scientific name for this substance is “cholesterol” (the ending -ol indicates belonging to alcohols), however, the name “cholesterol” has become widespread in the mass literature, which we will use later in this article. Cholesterol is formed in the liver, and also enters the body with food, mainly with meat and dairy products. Cholesterol is involved in the formation of cell membranes of all organs and tissues of the body. Based on cholesterol, hormones are created that are involved in the growth, development of the body and the implementation of the reproduction function. Bile acids are formed from it, due to which fats are absorbed in the intestines.

Cholesterol is insoluble in water, therefore, to move around the body, it is "packed" into a protein shell, consisting of special proteins - apolipoproteins. The resulting complex (cholesterol + apolipoprotein) is called lipoprotein. Several types of lipoproteins circulate in the blood, differing in the proportions of their constituent components:

  • very low density lipoproteins (VLDL),
  • low density lipoproteins (LDL),
  • high density lipoproteins (HDL).

High-density lipoproteins consist mainly of a protein part and contain some cholesterol. Their main function is to carry excess cholesterol back to the liver, where it is excreted as bile acids. Therefore, HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) is also called "good cholesterol". About 30% of total blood cholesterol (cholesterol) is part of HDL.

If a person has a hereditary predisposition to high cholesterol or he consumes too much fatty foods, then the level of cholesterol in the blood may rise, so that its excess will not be completely excreted by high density lipoproteins. It begins to be deposited in the walls of blood vessels in the form of plaques, which can restrict the movement of blood through the vessel, as well as make the vessels more rigid (atherosclerosis), which significantly increases the risk of heart disease (ischemic disease, heart attack) and stroke.

High HDL cholesterol values ​​reduce the risk of developing plaques in the vessels, as they help to remove excess cholesterol from the body. Decreased HDL-C even with normal level total cholesterol and its fractions leads to the progression of atherosclerosis.

What is research used for?

  • To assess the risk of developing atherosclerosis and heart problems.
  • To monitor the effectiveness of a low-fat diet.

When is the study scheduled?

  • Analysis for HDL is carried out during scheduled preventive examinations or with an increase in total cholesterol as part of the lipid profile. A lipid profile is recommended for all adults over 20 years of age at least once every 5 years. It may be given more frequently (several times a year) if the patient is on a low-fat diet and/or is taking cholesterol-lowering medications. In these cases, it is checked whether the patient reaches the target level of HDL cholesterol and total cholesterol and, accordingly, whether his risk is reduced. cordially- vascular diseases.
  • With existing risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases:
    • smoking,
    • age (men over 45, women over 55),
    • promotion blood pressure(140/90 mm Hg and above),
    • cases of high cholesterol or cardiovascular disease in other family members (heart attack or stroke in the closest male relative under 55 years old, female - under 65 years old),
    • available ischemic disease heart, myocardial infarction or stroke,
    • diabetes,
    • overweight,
    • alcohol abuse,
    • intake of large amounts of food containing animal fats,
    • low physical activity.
  • If a child in the family had a history of high cholesterol or heart disease in young age, then for the first time he is recommended to take a test for cholesterol at the age of 2 to 10 years.

What do the results mean?

Reference values: 1.03 - 1.55 mmol / l.

The concept of "norm" is not entirely applicable in relation to the level of HDL cholesterol. For different people With different amount risk factors, the norm of HDL will be different. To determine the risk of developing cardiovascular disease more accurately for a particular person, it is necessary to evaluate all the predisposing factors.
In general, we can say that a reduced level of HDL predisposes to the development of atherosclerosis, and a sufficient or high level prevents this process.

In adults, HDL cholesterol, depending on the level, can be assessed as follows:

  • less than 1.0 mmol / l in men and 1.3 mmol / l in women - a high risk of developing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases, regardless of other risk factors,
  • 1.0-1.3 mmol / l in men and 1.3-1.5 mmol / l in women - the average risk of developing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases,
  • 1.55 mmol / l and above - low risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases; while the vessels are protected from negative impact excess cholesterol.

Reasons for low HDL levels:

  • heredity (Tangier disease),
  • cholestasis - stagnation of bile, which can be caused by liver disease (hepatitis, cirrhosis) or gallstones,
  • severe liver disease
  • untreated diabetes,
  • chronic inflammation of the kidneys leading to nephrotic syndrome,
  • chronic renal failure.

Many people are aware of the detrimental effects of excess cholesterol on the body. But it is useful to know that the lack of a fat-like substance also leads to a violation normal functioning organism. But if about high cholesterol and its harm to the cardiovascular system are constantly warned by doctors and nutritionists. What threatens reduced level little information on cholesterol. What are the consequences for the body and what does it mean when LDL cholesterol is lowered?

Brief Introduction to Cholesterol

Cholesterol belongs to the group of alcohols, specifically, this substance is a polycyclic lipophilic alcohol of natural origin. It has a dense texture, endowed with the properties of fats, and the color is from white to light yellow. The term comes from two words: bile - “chole” and solid “stereos”. In view of this, organic compound and got its name in the 18th century as "cholesterol", later renamed "cholesterol" by the French. Cholesterol is part of the cell membranes of all living beings and ensures their stability in a wide range of temperatures.

Cholesterol is needed for:

  • Synthesis of vitamin D.
  • Protection of nerve fibers.
  • Assistance in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
  • Production of bile acids.
  • Production of steroid and sex hormones.

Most cholesterol is produced in the body - it is about 75-85%. The internal organs capable of producing lipophilic alcohol include the liver, adrenal glands, intestines, kidneys, and sex glands. And only about 17-25% of the fat-like substance comes from food of predominantly animal origin, which has a high content of it. herbal products contain moderate amount cholesterol. But animal fats abound in this hardly soluble organic compound.

Cholesterol is classified into high density lipoproteins (HDL), very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) and low density lipoproteins (LDL). High density lipoproteins () are complexes that combine fats (lipids) and proteins.

The activity of HDL in the body is aimed at processing and removing fats.

Low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) is formed during lipolysis and acts as a transporter of this fat-like substance in the bloodstream. Low density lipoprotein is considered an atherogenic substance. But LDL also carries carotenoids, triglycerides, tocopherol, and other lipophilic constituents in the blood. The class of low molecular weight lipoproteins is considered harmful because of the tendency to settle on the walls of blood vessels with excessive intake of LDL into the body or a violation of its processing.

Risk factors for LDL formation

The reasons for lowering cholesterol levels are not fully understood. But it is reliably known what causes hypocholesterolemia. In addition to some diseases that can disrupt lipid metabolism, this process is influenced by a person's lifestyle and nutrition.

Possible causes of hypocholesterolemia:

  • Insufficient intake of fats from food with the wrong diet or diet.
  • Pathology of the liver, which produces high and low density cholesterol.
  • Diseases of an infectious nature.
  • Overuse of statins that lower cholesterol levels.
  • Abuse of smoking and alcohol.
  • Intoxication of the body with heavy metals.
  • Insufficient mobility (hypodynamia).
  • Metabolic slowdown, can be traced in old age.
  • Exposure to stress.
  • A disease such as anorexia can catastrophically lower the level of lipoproteins.

Obese people are also at risk for cholesterol disorders. And in addition, people who are accustomed to the daily use of desserts. Confectionery, especially with a lot of fat ( butter, margarine and similar components) as part of baking and cream contribute. Semi-finished products and food fast food are also a source of bad cholesterol. It is very important to eliminate the causes that affect hypocholesterolemia in time for people of mature age and prone to cardiovascular pathologies.

Signs of low LDL cholesterol

Learn about low cholesterol initial stage possible only with the help of a biochemical blood test. Because the process of lowering LDL levels is slow. But in the case of a prolonged course of hypocholesterolemia, a person may experience characteristic symptoms.

Signs of low cholesterol:

  • There is a decrease in appetite or its complete absence.
  • There is muscle weakness.
  • Lymph nodes may be enlarged.
  • Decreased reflex and reactive abilities.
  • There is a tendency to aggression, irritability and depression.
  • Decreased sexual activity.

When conducting a lipid profile, if cholesterol levels are less than 4.6 mmol / l, hypocholesterolemia is diagnosed. In addition to problems with internal organs and the full functioning of body systems, especially the central nervous system. A person with critically reduced cholesterol levels has a tendency to suicide, alcohol and drug addiction.

What can low LDL mean?

  1. genetic predisposition.
  2. Violation of the functioning of the liver, intestines, adrenal glands or kidneys.
  3. Dysfunction of the sex glands.
  4. Excess synthesis of hormones thyroid gland(hypothyroidism).
  5. Oncological process in the central organ of hematopoiesis.
  6. A form of anemia characterized by vitamin B12 deficiency.
  7. Respiratory pathology.
  8. Inflammatory process of the joints.
  9. Acute infectious process.

The procedure for conducting and deciphering the analysis for LDL

It is possible to determine indicators of low-density cholesterol by conducting a biochemical blood test by ultracentrifuging samples to isolate certain fractions. The process of ultracentrifugation of biological material is not fast, although it allows obtaining the results of analysis for LDL with a high degree of accuracy. Over time, additional calculation methods have been developed to establish the level of LDL. The calculation method according to Friedwald has gained the greatest popularity.

The method involves the calculation of readings according to a special formula:

LDL cholesterol (mmol / l) \u003d total cholesterol - HDL cholesterol - TG / 2.2.

Lipidogram allows you to get information about the content of LDL in the blood with great accuracy. pass this study recommended systematically after 25 years of age. And people who have reached the milestone of 40 years will need to reduce the interval between lipidograms to once a year.

The procedure for preparing for the delivery of a blood test for LDL:

  • Eight hours before the lipid profile, do not eat.
  • For several days before taking blood for analysis, do not eat fatty foods.
  • The organism must not be overworked by physical or nervous tensions.
  • Avoid alcohol for about a week, and before visiting the diagnostic center It is advisable not to smoke for at least an hour.
  • Required to exclude medications and physiotherapy procedures.

Deciphering the lipid profile

When low-density cholesterol levels are very different from normal values downward. In this case, it will be necessary to retake a biochemical blood test in order to exclude the receipt of erroneous LDL data. When confirming the initial test results, the attending physician may prescribe an additional examination using laboratory or hardware diagnostic methods to identify the cause low cholesterol. And only after receiving the expanded clinical picture, a diagnosis is made and appropriate treatment is prescribed to restore cholesterol levels.

Recovery of LDL levels

In advanced cases, when low molecular weight cholesterol is greatly reduced, some diets and motor activity will no longer be enough. You will need to take nicotinic acid, which can quickly increase LDL levels in the body, as well as reduce triglyceride levels. Substances that, in combination with bad cholesterol, provoke the development of atherosclerosis and ischemia.

However, it must be remembered that the level of LDL cholesterol must be maintained within normal limits, any deviation in one direction or another is highly undesirable. Therefore, despite the safety of drugs with nicotinic acid, which in short time increase low molecular weight cholesterol. However, you will have to carry out a course of LDL recovery under the strict supervision of your doctor. And monitoring the results of treatment of low cholesterol is carried out using a biochemical blood test.

In contact with

There is an opinion that cholesterol in the human body is a rather harmful substance. Many information sources It is advised to constantly reduce this indicator in the human body. It should be noted right away that this opinion is erroneous, since it is cholesterol that is involved in many life processes of human cells.

LDL is considered atherogenic while HDL is anti-atherogenic.

Surrounding people believe that there are two types of cholesterol - "good" and "bad" and with a strong excess in the body, it is deposited on the vascular walls and leads to disastrous consequences. Let's take a closer look at what a lipid profile is and what level of cholesterol is not only safe, but also necessary for the healthy functioning of the body. And also what laboratory test determines this indicator in the blood and its interpretation.

Cholesterol - what is it?

Cholesterol is a steroid or highly biologically active substance. It is produced to a greater extent in human liver cells, up to about 50%, about 20% is synthesized by the intestines. The rest of the cholesterol is synthesized by the adrenal glands, skin and gonads. And only up to 500 mg of cholesterol per day comes from food.

Cholesterol also has a number of functions. The most basic of them are the strengthening of the cell wall, the production bile acid and synthesis of steroid hormones.

LDL - the so-called "bad", in fact, this concept does not exist in the medical vocabulary, it is more a common name for low-density lipoprotein. And it is bad because with its excess and oxidation, it really settles on the inner wall of the vessel, closing its lumen. Therefore, it is imperative to control this indicator, especially if total cholesterol in the blood is elevated.

HDL can be lowered for a number of reasons, such as poor diet or bad habits.

Lipoproteins vary in size, density and lipid content

HDL - in everyday life is considered "good". Differs from low-density lipoprotein in its structure and functional features. Its main function is to cleanse the vascular wall from LDL. When enough high level HDL or its norm, people are less prone to atherosclerotic diseases. If an HDL blood test reveals a significant decrease in them, then atherosclerosis is presumably diagnosed and additional research to confirm the diagnosis.

Lipid profile

This is a special biochemical blood test. The study includes the layout of lipids (fats) into individual components. With the help of this analysis, you can control the indicators and turn to a specialized medical care with any pathological abnormalities. This biochemical analysis includes:

  1. Cholesterol total or cholesterol - is one of the main indicators of the condition fat balance in the human body. Produced in liver cells.
  2. HDL (high density lipoproteins) - deliver cholesterol to the liver from the vascular wall when it is in excess.
  3. LDL (low-density lipoprotein) - is a carrier of cholesterol from the liver to the arteries, with an excess settles on the vascular wall.
  4. TG (triglycerides) - neutral lipids.

Even with this study, the atherogenic coefficient (KA) is calculated, which determines the predisposition to atherosclerosis. The so-called ratio between HDL and LDL.

Indications for analysis

In some vascular diseases, the level of LDL in the blood increases significantly, this may indicate atherosclerosis and comorbidities. Most likely, total cholesterol will also be elevated. And the HDL indicator, which is responsible for the process of reincarnating cholesterol into bile and removing cholesterol plaques from the walls of blood vessels, drops significantly in the blood.

A lipid profile is often prescribed when a risk of developing coronary heart disease is suspected.

A blood lipid profile test is prescribed for people who are in the "risk group" and have some of the following diseases:

  • cardiac ischemia;
  • liver and pancreas;
  • chronic pancreatitis;
  • obesity, foodborne;
  • hyperthyroidism;
  • alcoholism;
  • myeloma;
  • sepsis;
  • gout.

Another lipid profile is prescribed for children, but also for certain diseases, for example, with diabetes or with a hereditary predisposition to disorders of fat metabolism.

Analysis interpretation

Lipidogram allows you to detect lipid metabolism disorders

V medical practice there are certain standards by which the lipid profile is assessed. It is also worth noting that blood biochemistry standards may vary slightly in different laboratories, this is due to the use of different kits and reagents for research. When deciphering the analysis, the weight and age of the patient are taken into account.

Indicator Regulatory boundaries
total cholesterol 3.2 - 5.5 mmol/l
HDL > 0.9 mmol/l
LDL 1.7 - 3.5 mmol/l
TG 0.4 - 1.8 mmol/l

Only a doctor should deal with the interpretation of this laboratory test, it is he who will be able to correctly assess the situation and, if necessary, prescribe an adequate and timely treatment. Also, the doctor must correlate the result of the analysis with the individual characteristics of the patient and his medical history. For example, a recent heart attack or medication.

What can cause an increase in LDL levels?

LDL can rise in some diseases of the kidneys and liver, due to an imbalance of HDL. And also the risk factors for increasing "bad" cholesterol include: smoking, abuse alcoholic drinks, overeating, insufficient physical activity or hypodynamia, stagnation of bile. To reduce or maintain LDL, you need to resort to healthy lifestyle life and proper nutrition.

Preparation for analysis

Before donating blood for a lipid profile, you must refrain from eating for 12 hours

To obtain a correct and informative result of the analysis, a prerequisite on the part of the patient is preparation for it. Blood is taken from a vein and always on an empty stomach. Food must be abandoned 8 hours before delivery, and preferably for all 12. Dinner should be very light and consisting mainly of fiber, exclude fatty varieties meat, all kinds of sausages and smoked meats. Since this will lead to chileza in the blood serum and the analysis will be incorrect. You should also refrain from drinking coffee and alcohol the day before, do not smoke at least two hours before donating blood. If applied medications, then it is better not to take them before passing the analysis. And if this is undesirable, then be sure to warn the doctor about their intake.

Why are lipids useful?

Lipid metabolism is very important for healthy functioning human body. The main function of metabolism is the breakdown, assimilation and absorption of fats in intestinal tract. Very important fact is that lipids are actively involved in the synthesis of male and female hormones. Therefore, any violation of the fat balance can lead to problems with reproductive system. At normal lipid profile produced by the adrenal glands enough vitamin D. Also, with violations of this indicator in the blood, human immunity is significantly reduced.

Lipoproteins (aka lipoproteins) are a combination of fats (lipids) and proteins.

Exists next classification connection data:

  1. low density lipoproteins that are synthesized in the liver. They contain triglycerides and cholesterol and carry them into cells as they move through the circulatory system;
  2. Medium Density Lipoids that appear when triglycerides are transferred to tissues;
  3. Lipotheids with high density contain cholesterol that was not required by the cells. Such compounds are sent back to the liver, where they are processed into bile acids.

Simply put, high-density lipoproteins are the so-called "good" cholesterol, which, after meeting the needs of the body, are processed in the liver.

A decrease in the concentration of HDL in the blood indicates increased risk development of diseases such as atherosclerosis.

How HDL is determined


Timely diagnosis helps to prevent such serious consequences, how:

  • stroke;
  • vascular nephrosclerosis;
  • myocardial infarction;
  • ischemic heart disease.

Normal performance

To assess the risks of developing coronary heart disease, as well as determine the methods of treatment, it is necessary to assess the level of high-grade lipoproteins and the total level of cholesterol in the blood.

Causes of deviation from the norm

Cholesterol in the blood can rise various reasons, however, this process is not accompanied by strongly noticeable symptoms. In the vast majority of cases, a high concentration can only be found out after a study.

Usually, this study is prescribed when the heart begins to hurt, often the reason for the examination is a heart attack or stroke.

It should be noted that the level of cholesterol in the blood should be checked regularly in order to prevent harmful effects for your health.

This is especially true for people who:

The level of cholesterol in the blood is determined biochemical analysis blood.

To receive you need to reliable result, before you donate blood, you must not eat for twelve hours.

For a preventive examination, a similar analysis can be done at home. Especially for this, you need to purchase disposable testers at the pharmacy.

What to do if HDL is elevated?

If laboratory research found that the concentration of HDL in the blood test is too high, which can become a threat to health, then the following actions are necessary:

  1. Eliminate completely or at least minimize the consumption of fatty foods and dishes. If the amount of fat entering the body is reduced to thirty percent, then the proportion of saturated fatty acids should be seven percent. This circumstance will make it possible to achieve faster HDL indicator norms. It is not necessary to completely exclude fats from your diet, especially unsaturated fatty acids necessary for brain function, as this can lead to negative consequences.
  2. Oils and products containing saturated fat, should be partially replaced by polyunsaturated. Such fatty acids are found, for example, in soybean oil, as well as in olive, sunflower, safflower and corn.

    Eating foods that contain a large number of saturated fat should be reduced to a minimum. Such products, respectively, and dishes prepared from them, increase LDL levels more than any other food component.

    High amounts of saturated fatty acids are found in foods such as palm and coconut oils, animal fats and foods rich in them, and trans fats (they are also hydrogenated).

  3. Do not eat foods that contain trans fats. Such connections are even more dangerous for of cardio-vascular system than saturated fats. Often the presence of trans fats is indicated on the packaging, but it must be borne in mind that sometimes unscrupulous manufacturers do not do this.

If all this is not done, a further increase in the level of cholesterol in the blood can lead to negative consequences.

Such as:

  1. deterioration of blood circulation, which in turn can lead to malnutrition of tissues and deterioration of well-being;
  2. blood clots that can block blood flow.

In addition, if the level of HDL is elevated, you need to completely eliminate or minimize consumption following products containing cholesterol:

  • eggs;
  • shellfish;
  • high-fat milk;
  • crustaceans;
  • offal, especially the liver.

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In order to understand low or high cholesterol, you need to do a blood test. This must be done by preliminary training which will give you a reliable result.

Preparation includes the following steps:

  • it is necessary to refuse food at least eight hours before the blood sampling;
  • it is not recommended for patients to eat too high-calorie meals two to three days before the procedure;
  • do not smoke thirty minutes before the analysis;
  • before the behavior of the lipid profile, you do not need to strain much, and this applies not only to physical, but also to emotional stress (do not worry ahead of time)

A lipidogram can be performed in the following situations:

  • there is a need to determine the risk of developing atherosclerosis, especially if there are prerequisites for its development or a hereditary predisposition to it;
  • diagnosing cardiac dysfunction;
  • assessment of the effectiveness of the diet, involving the consumption of foods and dishes containing a minimum amount of fat.

In addition, it is worth highlighting cases when a specialist prescribes an analysis to his patient to determine the concentration of cholesterol:

  1. Lipidogram is the diagnostic method, which is recommended for determining the health status of adults. This is how you can quickly and accurately detect HDL cholesterol. It should be done at least once every five years (and even more often for people with a predisposition).
    Often prescribed this analysis during scheduled examinations carried out for preventive purposes, as well as in determining increased rates total cholesterol level.

    Besides, this method diagnosis is recommended for those people who long time were on a diet that was low in fat in all its forms. It can also be prescribed to those who have taken medications that lower cholesterol.

  2. Assigned to those people, which significantly increases the likelihood of developing diseases of the cardiovascular system due to the influence of certain factors:
    • Age-related changes, and this is typical for persons of both polos;
    • high blood pressure;
    • Progression of cardiac ischemia;
    • Too much weight or obesity of any degree;
    • Eating foods that contain a large amount of animal fat.

Cholesterol is a lipoprotein, and in the human body is present in the blood and in cell membranes. Blood cholesterol is represented by cholesterol esters, and in membranes - free cholesterol. Cholesterol is vital essential substance, as it participates in the formation of bile, sex hormones, gives firmness to the cell membrane. The notion that cholesterol = harm is wrong. More dangerous for the body is the lack of cholesterol than its excess. However, an excess amount of cholesterol in the blood is a prerequisite for the development of such a disease as atherosclerosis. Therefore, the determination of cholesterol is a marker for the development of atherosclerosis.

How to take a blood test for cholesterol?

To determine the lipid profile, blood from a vein taken in the morning on an empty stomach is used. Preparation for the test is usual - abstinence from food for 6-8 hours, avoiding physical activity and rich fatty foods. The determination of total cholesterol is carried out by the unified international method of Abel or Ilk. The determination of fractions is carried out by precipitation and photometry methods, which are rather laborious, but accurate, specific and quite sensitive.

The author warns that the norm indicators are averaged, and may differ in each laboratory. The material of the article should be used as a reference and no attempt should be made to make a diagnosis and start treatment on your own.

Lipidogram - what is it?
Today, the concentration of the following blood lipoproteins is determined:

  1. total cholesterol
  2. High density lipoproteins (HDL or α-cholesterol),
  3. Low density lipoproteins (LDL beta cholesterol).
  4. Triglycerides (TG)
The combination of these indicators (cholesterol, LDL, HDL, TG) is called lipidogram. more important diagnostic criterion The risk of developing atherosclerosis is an increase in the LDL fraction, which is called atherogenic, that is, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis.

HDL, on the contrary, are antiatherogenic fraction, as they reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.

Triglycerides are the transport form of fats, so they high content in the blood also leads to the risk of atherosclerosis. All these indicators together or separately are used to diagnose atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, as well as to determine the risk group for the development of these diseases. Also used as a treatment control.

Read more about coronary heart disease in the article: angina pectoris

"Bad" and "good" cholesterol - what is it?

Let us examine in more detail the mechanism of action of cholesterol fractions. LDL is called "bad" cholesterol, since it is he who leads to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques on the walls of blood vessels, which interfere with blood flow. As a result, due to these plaques, vessel deformation occurs, its lumen narrows, and blood cannot pass freely to all organs, as a result, cardiovascular insufficiency develops.

HDL, on the contrary, is “good” cholesterol, which removes atherosclerotic plaques from the walls of blood vessels. Therefore, it is more informative and correct to determine cholesterol fractions, and not just total cholesterol. After all, total cholesterol is made up of all fractions. For example, the concentration of cholesterol in two people is 6 mmol / l, but one of them has 4 mmol / l for HDL, while the other has the same 4 mmol / l for LDL. Of course, a person who has a higher HDL concentration can be calm, and a person who has a higher LDL should take care of his health. Here is such a possible difference, with seemingly the same level of total cholesterol.

Lipidogram norms - cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, atherogenic coefficient

Consider lipid profile indicators - total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, TG.
An increase in blood cholesterol levels is called hypercholesterolemia.

Hypercholesterolemia results from unbalanced nutrition at healthy people(heavy consumption of fatty foods - fatty meat, coconut, palm oil) or as a hereditary pathology.

The norm of blood lipids

The atherogenic coefficient (KA) is also calculated, which is normally less than 3.

Atherogenic coefficient (KA)

KA shows the ratio of atherogenic and anti-atherogenic fractions in the blood.

How to calculate KA?

This is easy to do just by having lipid profile results. It is necessary to divide the difference between total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol by the HDL value.

Deciphering the values ​​​​of the coefficient of atherogenicity

  • If KA of atherosclerosis is minimal.
  • If CA is 3-4, then the content of atherogenic fractions is higher, then there is high degree the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease (CHD),
  • If KA> 5 - indicates that a person has a high probability of atherosclerosis, which significantly increases the likelihood of vascular diseases of the heart, brain, limbs, kidneys
Read more about atherosclerosis in the article: Atherosclerosis

In order to normalize fat metabolism, it is necessary to strive for the following blood indicators:

What do lipid profile abnormalities indicate?

Triglycerides

TG is also referred to as risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (ischemic heart disease). When the concentration of TG in the blood is more than 2.29 mmol / l, we are talking about the fact that the person is already sick with atherosclerosis or coronary artery disease. With a blood TH concentration in the range of 1.9-2.2 mmol / l (border values), it is said that atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease are developing, but these diseases themselves have not yet fully developed. An increase in the concentration of TG is also observed in diabetes mellitus.

LDL

An LDL concentration above 4.9 mmol / l indicates that a person is sick with atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. If the concentration of LDL lies in the range of borderline values ​​of 4.0-4.9 mmol / l, then atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease are developing.

HDL

HDL in men is less than 1.16 mmol / l, and in women less than 0.9 mmol / l is a sign of the presence of atherosclerosis or coronary artery disease. With a decrease in HDL in the range of borderline values ​​(in women 0.9-1.40 mmol / l, in men 1.16-1.68 mmol / l), we can talk about the development of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. An increase in HDL suggests that the risk of developing coronary artery disease is minimal.

Read about the complication of atherosclerosis - stroke in the article:

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