Navigating LDL Particles and Its Implications for Optimal Cardiovascular Wellness

In this episode of ReInvent healthcare, I dive deep into LDL Particles and what those mean for cardiovascular health. I also share how essential it is to personalize care and use a holistic approach based on genetics and lifestyle, and to examine a full lipid profile to effectively manage the cardiovascular health of our clients.

IN THIS EPISODE:

LDL Particles Are Not All the Same
It’s essential to understand that not all LDL particles are created equal. LDL stands for low-density lipoproteins and plays a crucial role in transporting cholesterol and fats throughout the body. However, high levels of LDL, especially small, dense particles, can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis, heart disease, and strokes. As functional practitioners, it is important to understand this in order to tailor approaches for every individual.

Particle Size Matters
The size and density of LDL particles matter when assessing cardiovascular risk. Smaller, denser LDL particles are more atherogenic and susceptible to oxidation, making them more harmful than larger, buoyant particles. These small particles are associated with higher triglyceride levels and often observed in individuals with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.

Comprehensive Assessment Is Key
Standard lipid panels, which measure cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides, are not enough to assess cardiovascular risk fully. Functional practitioners should consider advanced lipid panels that include particle size and number, assess for oxidized LDL, and examine Lp(a) lipoprotein. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and stress management, play a significant role in influencing LDL particle characteristics and should be addressed to reduce cardiovascular risk.

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Ritamarie Loscalzo

Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo is a best-selling author and speaker known for her extensive knowledge, infectious energy, and inspirational message that encourages individuals to become their own best health advocate. She is an internationally recognized nutrition and health authority who specializes in using the wisdom of nature to restore hormone balance with a special emphasis on thyroid, adrenal and insulin imbalances. She founded the Institute of Nutritional Endocrinology to empower health and nutrition practitioners to get to the root cause of health concerns by using functional assessments and natural therapeutics to balance the endocrine system, the body's master controller.

Dr. Ritamarie is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic with Certification in Acupuncture and is a Diplomat of the American Clinical Nutrition Board. She is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist with a Master’s in Human Nutrition, has completed a 2-year, 500-hour Herbal Medicine Program at David Winston’s Center for Herbal Studies and has a master's degree in Computer Science, which contributes to her skills as an ace problem solver.