LDL Small

The presence of small LDL subclasses has long been associated with increased CVD risk and progression of atherosclerotic disease. These smaller particles are associated with rapid uptake into the endothelium contributing to accelerated atherosclerosis. Research is finding that smaller, denser LDL particles can burrow themselves into arterial walls and build up plaque far more easily than larger LDL particles. That’s a key reason why people who have low total cholesterol levels and even low total LDL levels can still be at high risk of a heart attack.  The smaller your LDL particles, the more susceptible you are to plaque growth.

Consult your medical professional before starting any lifestyle change or treatment plan.

People with high cholesterol should talk with a doctor about additional interventions. In some cases, making lifestyle changes may help. However, taking cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins may help lower cholesterol in people at high risk of heart disease.

- Address by diet and exercise.

• Eat a diet very rich in soluble fiber (BYOBB) – Beans, Yams, Oats, Barley, and Berries
• Eat fewer refined carbohydrates
• Eat much less saturated and trans fats and cholesterol [Review this, this, and this]
• Exercise regularly
• Lose excess weight

- Address excess LDL-P or ApoB

- Consider therapies to address insulin resistance (e.g., Metformin)

Small LDL subclass particles cause plaque buildup to progress much faster because they enter the artery wall more easily than large LDL particles. A predominance of smaller LDL particles, referred to as Pattern B lipid phenotype, represents an atherogenic lipid profile that is associated with CVD.