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Research NutriStat RATIO (APO B / APO A-1)
NutriStat NutriPATH

RATIO (APO B / APO A-1)

Optimal Result: 0.45 - 1.25 Ratio.

The Apolipoprotein B to Apolipoprotein A-1 ratio (ApoB/ApoA-1) is a powerful measure of cardiovascular risk and cholesterol balance.

  • ApoB represents the number of atherogenic (plaque-forming) lipoprotein particles — mainly LDL, VLDL, and Lp(a).

  • ApoA-1 is the main protein in HDL (good cholesterol) and reflects the body’s capacity to remove cholesterol from arteries.

This ratio therefore shows the balance between “bad” and “good” cholesterol particles — how much cholesterol is being delivered to tissues versus how efficiently it’s being cleared away.

What does it mean if your RATIO (APO B / APO A-1) result is too low?

A low ApoB/ApoA-1 ratio means that you have fewer harmful cholesterol-carrying particles (ApoB) compared to protective HDL particles (ApoA-1).

This is generally a very positive finding, as it suggests:

  • Low levels of artery-clogging lipoproteins

  • Efficient cholesterol removal and transport

  • A reduced risk of developing atherosclerosis, heart attack, or stroke

In fact, research shows that the ApoB/ApoA-1 ratio is one of the strongest predictors of cardiovascular risk — even more accurate than total cholesterol or LDL alone. A lower ratio consistently indicates better heart and vascular health.

Typical Reference Ranges

ApoB / ApoA-1 Ratio Interpretation
< 0.55 (men) / < 0.50 (women) Low — protective cardiovascular profile
0.55–0.80 (men) / 0.50–0.75 (women) Average / moderate risk
> 0.80 (men) / > 0.75 (women) Elevated — increased cardiovascular risk

(Ranges may vary slightly between labs.)

Possible Reasons for a Low ApoB / ApoA-1 Ratio

A low ratio can result from:

  • Healthy lipid metabolism and balanced cholesterol transport

  • Effective treatment with statins, PCSK9 inhibitors, or other lipid-lowering therapies

  • High levels of protective HDL cholesterol (ApoA-1)

  • Regular physical activity and a heart-healthy diet (rich in omega-3s, fiber, fruits, and vegetables)

  • Low levels of inflammation and oxidative stress

Occasionally, a low ratio may be seen in metabolic or nutritional conditions that reduce overall lipoprotein production, such as:

  • Liver disease

  • Malnutrition or very low-fat diets

  • Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)

In such cases, the ratio is low because both ApoB and ApoA-1 may be reduced, not necessarily due to improved heart health.

Health Implications

  • Generally favorable: A low ApoB/ApoA-1 ratio is associated with a lower risk of heart attack, stroke, and arterial plaque buildup.

  • Exception: If accompanied by symptoms of malnutrition, liver disease, or thyroid imbalance, it may signal a metabolic disturbance rather than optimal lipid balance.

What To Do About It

If your ApoB/ApoA-1 ratio is low:

  1. Celebrate the positive: It often reflects a healthy, protective lipid profile.

  2. Continue heart-protective habits:

    • Eat whole, unprocessed foods with healthy fats

    • Exercise regularly

    • Maintain a healthy body weight and avoid smoking

  3. If the ratio is extremely low or you have other abnormal labs:

    • Discuss with your healthcare provider to rule out conditions affecting liver or thyroid function.

Key Takeaway

A low ApoB / ApoA-1 ratio means your body has fewer harmful cholesterol particles and stronger cholesterol-clearing capacity, reflecting a lower cardiovascular risk. It’s generally a desirable finding, confirming that your lipid balance supports long-term heart and vascular health.

Frequently asked questions

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Yes, you can! We highly recommend activating Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for your account. To do so, please navigate to the "Profile and Security" section of your account, where you will find instructions for activating 2FA.

Yes, you can. When entering values for the biomarker, you will see an "Edit Range" button. Click this button, and you'll have the option to enter a custom range.

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