This test measures LDL and HDL cholesterol, as well as triglycerides.
LDL cholesterol is the most common circulating form of cholesterol. LDL cholesterol can be elevated in states of stress or hypothyroidism, since thyroid hormones help utilize cholesterol to produce stress reducing hormones. It can also be too low, which can be caused by infection, high estrogen, bile acid malabsorption in the gut, or low intake of sugars or saturated fats.
The thyroid hormones govern metabolism, or the body’s energy production. Poor thyroid function be caused by and can contribute to stress. Stress inhibits thyroid hormone production and utilization, and the stress systems tend to take over to compensate for low thyroid function. Thyroid function is vital for maintaining gut health, too. Thyroid hormones govern the growth and proliferation of the cells in the gut, and promote gut motility, support the immune system, and enhance digestive enzyme and stomach acid secretion. Low thyroid function is common in aging and several chronic and age related diseases, as energy metabolism is what fundamentally maintains the structure and function of every cell, tissue and organ system in the body.
HDL cholesterol is type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol and other fat soluble components to the liver for storage or detoxification. HDL also plays a role in the immune system, dampening the inflammatory response and directly aiding in the clearance of pathogens. It is generally considered to be protective, as low levels can indicate problems with glucose metabolism. However, high levels are a risk as well, potentially indicating a high toxic burden or infection.
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the blood. Triglycerides are produced by the liver from circulating free fatty acids from fat tissue, which are released during stress and insulin resistance. Triglycerides can be utilized by tissues for energy, or taken back up by fat tissue. High levels can indicate insulin resistance, because insulin suppresses the release of free fatty acids and allows for the re-uptake of them in fat tissue.
Includes:
- Chol/HDLC Ratio
- Total Cholesterol
- HDL Cholesterol
- LDL Cholesterol
- Non HDL Cholesterol
- Triglycerides
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