The Evil Twin of the LDL (Bad) Cholesterol
Lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a), pronounced “LP little a”
Lp(a) has been referred to as the evil twin of the more familiar LDL (bad) cholesterol. It consists of an LDL-like particle with an extra protein coil that makes the particle more sticky to burrow into and damage the arterial wall.
Lp(a) is a triple threat because it is:
- Pro-atherogenic causes a higher risk of producing plaque in arteries
- Pro-thrombotic meaning it promotes the formation of blood clots causing heart attacks and strokes
- Pro-inflammatory – inflammation can irritate your blood vessels, promote the growth of plaque, loosen plaque in your arteries, and trigger blood clots1
Lp(a) is determined by your genes. Exercise and dietary lifestyle changes have no effect on your level of Lp(a) but do contribute to your over health.
If you have experienced a heart attack or stroke before turning 60 years old, or have a family member who did, you could be at risk for elevated Lp(a).
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