A lipid profile measures cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood to assess cardiovascular risk. It typically includes total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.
Why fasting matters
Triglyceride levels rise significantly after eating. A 10-12 hour fast (water only) before the test gives the most accurate reading, especially if triglycerides are elevated.
Beyond the basic panel
For high-risk patients, consider advanced lipid testing: ApoB, Lp(a), and LDL particle number. These can reveal cardiovascular risk that a standard panel misses.
Targets based on risk
Healthy adults: LDL below 100. Diabetics: LDL below 70. Established heart disease: LDL below 55. These targets have tightened over the past decade as evidence for aggressive LDL lowering has strengthened.