Important Information About the New Type of "Bad" Cholesterol

For more than ten years, researchers have been aware that using conventional cholesterol blood tests to assess heart disease risk is not as dependable as many doctors assume. Unfortunately, many physicians, including cardiologists, have not embraced this finding yet. Here are the important questions you should be asking your doctor...

Overview

• New studies have uncovered complexities in the role of cholesterol in heart health, indicating that traditional markers like high levels of "bad" LDL may not be sufficient for predicting heart health.
• The ApoB test is more precise in evaluating the risk of heart disease as it measures the particles that transport potentially harmful cholesterol to arteries.
• Despite its advantages, ApoB testing has not been widely adopted by doctors, although it is readily available.

What Is ApoB?

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) is a protein that plays a vital role in fat metabolism and cardiovascular health. It is a key component of lipoproteins, which are particles in the blood responsible for transporting cholesterol and other lipids throughout the body.

ApoB is specifically a crucial structural protein present in low-density lipoproteins (LDL), very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), and intermediate-density lipoproteins (IDL). According to numerous experts, doctors should not only test for "bad" LDL cholesterol but also for ApoB to accurately assess the risk of heart issues.

Testing for ApoB

The ApoB test examines the quantity of cholesterol-carrying particles transporting potentially harmful LDL cholesterol in your blood. Studies indicate that your ApoB level is a better indicator of the likelihood of arterial plaque buildup and reduced blood flow to the heart compared to a standard cholesterol reading. ApoB proteins can cause LDL cholesterol to adhere to artery walls, leading to plaque formation that obstructs blood flow to the heart muscle.

However, convincing doctors to incorporate additional blood tests for evaluating heart health is a gradual process.

Within medical circles, the advocacy for using ApoB instead of conventional cholesterol tests has been gaining momentum for at least a decade. According to Allan Sniderman, M.D., who has researched ApoB and heart health, an ApoB test is affordable (ranging from $20 to $100) and would enhance individuals' understanding of their health risks.

ApoB Outperforms LDL Cholesterol Testing

Dr. Sniderman asserts that "The debate is settled" regarding the most accurate test[2]. He believes that ApoB is the superior choice.

He is supported by compelling evidence: "The standard cholesterol blood test currently used is considered around 85 percent accurate by mainstream doctors in predicting individuals at higher risk of arterial blockages that threaten heart health." This implies that 15 percent of the predictions regarding future heart issues are incorrect, as stated by researcher Brian Ference, M.D., from the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom.

This 15 percent represents a significant number of individuals receiving misleading results!

As previously mentioned, ApoB tests are more precise as they measure the quantity of carrier proteins in the blood capable of transporting LDL (bad cholesterol) to artery walls, akin to an intelligent traffic camera counting delivery trucks on the highway.

The Facts About LDL and HDL Cholesterol

Recent cholesterol studies have revealed numerous aspects that are still not fully understood. While LDL cholesterol is commonly perceived as a health risk, HDL cholesterol is believed to offer some protection against heart problems.

However, research from Oregon Health & Science University challenges this notion. The study found that while HDL reduced the risk of heart attacks and mortality in white individuals, it did not confer the same benefits for black individuals.

In this extensive study involving over 23,000 Americans, having high HDL levels did not decrease the risk of non-fatal heart disease for anyone, irrespective of race or gender.

Therefore, if you have been reassured by a cholesterol test showing high HDL and low LDL levels, that reassurance may not be entirely warranted. This research underscores the importance of knowing your ApoB level.

Obtaining an ApoB Test

Despite efforts to promote widespread ApoB testing, it remains a challenging task, and prospects for its increased adoption are bleak. Most doctors, accustomed to conventional cholesterol tests, are hesitant to routinely use ApoB blood tests. Dr. Sniderman laments, "My mood goes from bad to worse."

In essence, you cannot rely solely on your doctor. However, you can request an ApoB test. We strongly recommend it, particularly if you have concerns about your cardiovascular risk, a family history of heart disease, or other related health issues.

You can communicate your desire for a more accurate evaluation of your cardiovascular risk compared to traditional cholesterol tests. If you have previously received inconclusive cholesterol test results or possess additional risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease, ensure to discuss these with your healthcare provider.

If your healthcare provider deems an ApoB test necessary, they will issue a prescription or test order. This prescription will be sent to a laboratory, or you may receive a physical copy to take to the lab.

The ApoB test is conducted similarly to other cholesterol tests. Depending on the lab's guidelines or your healthcare provider's instructions, you may need to fast for nine to twelve hours before the test.

Some companies offer direct-to-consumer testing, enabling you to order an ApoB test online and have your blood drawn at a local lab without a doctor's prescription. However, it is crucial to follow up with a healthcare provider for result interpretation.

The ApoB test is one of several innovative methods for monitoring heart health. Medical researchers are exploring diverse approaches ranging from retinal scans like QUARTZ to examining earwax – a surprising yet effective method!

Our Conclusion

The primary recommendation is to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle.

This includes following an anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole, organic foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy oils like olive oil and coconut oil. Minimize processed foods, including processed fruits and vegetables, as much as possible.

Additionally, ensure adequate sleep and engage in regular physical activity – even a modest increase of 500 steps daily can reduce the risk of heart problems and help maintain normal cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Summary

For more than a decade, experts have acknowledged that traditional cholesterol tests may not offer the most reliable assessment of heart disease risk. A more accurate alternative, the ApoB test, measures the quantity of cholesterol-carrying particles, providing better insights into potential artery blockages and heart issues. Despite substantial evidence supporting ApoB testing, its widespread adoption among physicians remains limited, leaving many individuals with potentially misleading cholesterol readings.