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What are blood lipids exactly?
Blood lipids is a collective term for various fat-like substances in the blood, primarily cholesterol and triglycerides. They perform several vital functions, such as cell construction and hormone production.
At the same time, elevated levels of certain lipids, especially LDL cholesterol, can contribute to fat deposits in the artery walls. Over time, this can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Why is it important to check your blood lipids?
Blood lipids are a major component of overall cardiovascular risk. Because high levels often don't present symptoms, a person can have them for a long time without knowing.
By checking your levels, you can detect risk factors early and, if necessary, make lifestyle changes or receive medical treatment.
What affects our blood lipid levels?
Blood lipids are influenced by both lifestyle and genetic factors. Diet, physical activity, body weight, smoking, and alcohol consumption can all play a role.
There are also hereditary conditions where the body struggles to regulate cholesterol. Therefore, it is important to view blood lipids in a broader context, considering both lifestyle and family history.
When should you test your blood lipids?
It is wise to check your blood lipids as part of a regular health check-up, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity.
In some cases, it can also be valuable to monitor levels over time, for example, after making lifestyle changes.
At Testmottagningen.se, we have developed a health check focusing on the lipid profile which includes a physician's report. This can be an excellent first step for those who want to gain better insight into their levels and at the same time have the opportunity to ask questions about their current risk profile to me or my colleagues, Hannah Krantz concludes.
Medically reviewed by:
Hannah Krantz, Licensed Physician at Testmottagningen.se.