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While most of us can easily recall our phone numbers or birth dates, the metrics that define our internal health are often overlooked or misunderstood.
A standard check-up usually covers blood pressure and weight, but those figures are just the beginning of the story. To truly understand your cardiovascular and metabolic health, you need to look beneath the surface.
For example, most people look at their total cholesterol and call it a day. Some go a step further and check their LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein), often labeled as the “bad” cholesterol. However, the truth is more nuanced.
It isn’t just about how much LDL you have, but the type of particles present in your bloodstream. For example, if you have a high number of small, dense particles, they act like grit in a pipe and are more likely to clog your blood vessels. Large, fluffy particles tend to float harmlessly through the arteries and are less likely to cause blockages. Because of this, your LDL particle number is a vital metric.
Additionally, you should monitor your ApoB level, which is a highly accurate indicator of heart disease risk, and Lp(a), a test that identifies inherited risks for heart disease.
Sugar and Insulin levels should be monitored. How your body handles sugar is perhaps the most important indicator of metabolic health. Refined carbohydrates such as bread, pasta, potatoes, and sweets are quickly converted into sugar once ingested. In response to rising blood sugar, your pancreas produces insulin to clear it from your bloodstream. If your body requires excessive amounts of insulin to keep your sugar levels stable, you have insulin resistance. This is a major red flag for cardiovascular problems and metabolic dysfunction. Knowing your Insulin Resistance Score can help you address these issues before they turn into chronic conditions.
The Role of Inflammation is also important in the body. Inflammation is the body’s response to stress, poor diet and lack of sleep. A test called HS-CRP (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein) measures systemic inflammation, which significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
These tests are just an introduction to the tools available for monitoring your health. By staying informed and asking your healthcare provider about specific tests like ApoB, insulin resistance, and HS-CRP, you can build a roadmap toward a longer, healthier life.
Dr. Veita Bland is a board-certified Greensboro physician and hypertension specialist. Dr. Bland’s radio show, “It’s a Matter of Your Health,” can be heard live on Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. on N.C. A&T State University’s WNAA, 90.1 FM. Listeners may call in and ask questions. The show is replayed on Sirius 142 at 5 p.m. on Wed. Email Dr. Bland at ideas@blandclinicpa.com
