Question:
Hoping that you are doing well!
My recent blood tests have shown that I have high cholesterol. I looked at the list of ailments and could not find anything for cholesterol. I also looked at the liver section and I did not know which one would be better for me.
Answer:
While many doctors describe LDL cholesterol as universally harmful, this is based on standard blood tests that measure total LDL without distinguishing between different types. Not all LDL is the same—larger, fluffier LDL particles pose little risk to your heart health. It’s the smaller, denser LDL particles that are concerning, as they’re more likely to contribute to artery blockages. If your LDL is mostly the larger type, you generally don’t need to worry—it’s actually the healthier form of LDL.
Please watch this video by Dr Berg: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nsISdNl2tWo
Not all LDL cholesterol is created equal. While LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is often labeled “bad cholesterol,” research shows that small, dense LDL particles are far more harmful than large, buoyant LDL. Here’s what you need to know, plus where to get advanced lipoprotein testing in the U.S.
1. The 7 Types of LDL (From Safest to Most Dangerous)
LDL particles vary by size, density, and atherogenicity (ability to cause plaque buildup).
LDL Subtype Size (nm) Density Risk of Heart Disease
LDL I (Large, buoyant) 26–28 Low
Least harmful (cleared easily)
LDL II 25.5–26 Low
Low risk
LDL III 24.5–25.5 Intermediate
Moderate risk
LDL IV (Small, dense) 23–24.5 High
High risk (oxidizes easily, penetrates artery walls)
LDL V 22–23 Very High
Very high risk
LDL VI 21–22 Very High
Extreme risk
LDL VII (Remnant-like) <21 Highest
Most dangerous (triggers inflammation)
Why Small, Dense LDL is Worse:
Easily oxidizes → Triggers arterial inflammation.
Sticks to artery walls → Forms plaque (atherosclerosis).
Longer lifespan in blood → More time to cause damage.
Linked to metabolic syndrome (insulin resistance, high triglycerides).
Large LDL (I & II) is less harmful because it’s:
Cleared faster by the liver.
Less prone to oxidation.
2. Where to Get Tested for LDL Subtypes in the U.S.
Standard cholesterol tests (LDL-C) only measure total LDL mass, not particle size. To check your LDL subtype pattern, you need:
Advanced Lipid Tests Available in the U.S.
Test Name What It Measures Where to Get It Cost (Approx.)
NMR Lipoprofile (by LabCorp) LDL particle number (LDL-P), size, small LDL % LabCorp, Quest, online (Walk-In Lab) $100–$150
Atherotech VAP Test LDL density (Pattern A vs. B) Major hospitals, some clinics $120–$200.
Boston Heart Cholesterol Balance Advanced LDL/HDL subfractions Specialized labs, some cardiologists $200–$300
Berkeley HeartLab LDL particle size & inflammation markers Requires doctor’s order $250+
There is no point in having a discussion on RDPV3 groups and frequencies suitable for cholesterol until it is known what type of LDL it is.
