Cholesterol package fat profile chol total, HDL, LDL, triglycerides
This comprehensive cholesterol screening will give you insight into one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular disease: an impaired lipid profile. The package measures:
- Total cholesterol - Important measure of your cardiovascular health
- HDL (good cholesterol) - Helps drain excess cholesterol through the liver
- LDL (bad cholesterol) - Can accumulate in blood vessels and lead to constrictions
- Triglycerides - Fat particles that rise after a meal and provide energy to muscles
Why is cholesterol measurement important?
Cholesterol is essential for your body: it plays a role in the production of hormones, cell membranes and bile acids. But excess cholesterol, especially in the form of LDL, increases the risk of arteriosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes.
A healthy total cholesterol value is below 5.0 mmol/l. If your value is between 5.0 and 6.5 mmol/l, the risk of cardiovascular disease is slightly increased. With values above 6.5 mmol/l, there is an increased risk.
What does this cholesterol test measure?
LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) transports cholesterol through the blood. Too much LDL continues to circulate and can deposit in the vessel wall, leading to arteriosclerosis. In this study, LDL is not calculated but measured directly - this gives a more reliable result.
HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) removes excess cholesterol from your body and carries it back to the liver, where it is excreted through the bile. Higher HDL levels are beneficial and associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
Cholesterol ratio (total / HDL).
The 3-4-5 rule applies as a guideline:
LDL below 3.0 mmol/l
Cholesterol ratio below 4.0
Total cholesterol below 5.0 mmol/l
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are fats from food that provide energy. Excessive levels - especially after a meal - can indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and are associated with obesity and insulin resistance. Therefore, it is important not to have a meal right before the blood draw.
Tip: This examination is ideal as a preventive check or as a follow-up to an elevated cholesterol in a previous examination. Regular monitoring of your lipid profile helps you make timely adjustments through diet, exercise or medication.
