- Total Cholesterol: Waxy type of fat (lipid), which travels around the body in the blood. It is an essential molecule; however, excess cholesterol can cause health complications.
- HDL Cholesterol: Considered “good” cholesterol, as HDL collects cholesterol from around the body, and delivers it to the liver for recycling or excretion.
- LDL Cholesterol: Called “bad” cholesterol, as LDL deposits excess cholesterol in blood vessel walls, where it accumulates, leading to hardening of the arteries, atherosclerosis, and blood clots.
- Triglycerides: Main form of fat in the body. Elevated triglycerides are associated with an increased risk of health complications, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
- Cholesterol Ratio: Total cholesterol divided by HDL cholesterol. Higher ratios mean a higher risk of heart disease.
- C-Reactive Protein: Protein in the blood that non-specifically increases during inflammation and infection. Slightly elevated CRP levels in otherwise healthy individuals are indicative of the development of atherosclerosis, and help to predict the future risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
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