171. July 2022 Bloodwork Review!

LDL Insights

Paul Saladino discusses the nuances of LDL cholesterol, emphasizing that LDL particle size and count are less significant for those who are insulin sensitive. He argues that traditional metrics for LDL may not apply to individuals with low fasting insulin and hemoglobin A1C levels, like himself 1. Paul also highlights the genetic factors influencing LDL patterns, noting that a low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet can lead to less favorable LDL profiles, especially in those genetically predisposed 2.

I think that there's very scant, I don't think there's a good case that can be made with the literature to suggest that your LDL is an increased cardiovascular risk when you are insulin sensitive.

--- Paul Saladino

He believes that dietary choices, particularly the intake of saturated fats, can positively impact LDL levels.

   

LDL & Inflammation

Paul explores the relationship between LDL cholesterol and inflammation, challenging the notion that red meat is inflammatory. He shares his own bloodwork results, showing low levels of inflammation markers like hSCRP, even with high LDL levels 3. Paul also delves into the role of homocysteine, explaining its genetic and dietary influences, and how it can be managed through proper nutrition 4.

My hSCRP is 0.5. Now, interestingly, when I had my blood work in the past, that showed an LDL of 500, my hSCRP was 1.7.

--- Paul Saladino

He emphasizes that LDL's role in cardiovascular risk is not straightforward and is significantly influenced by insulin sensitivity.

   

Diet Impact

Paul examines how different diets impact cholesterol levels, particularly focusing on animal-based versus carbohydrate-rich diets. He explains that low-carbohydrate diets can lead to higher LDL levels due to increased lipid metabolism, a phenomenon he attributes to evolutionary adaptations 5. Paul also discusses the importance of including organ meats in the diet to manage homocysteine levels, which can be elevated in those following a strict carnivore diet 6.

If you are seeing LDLs of three or 400 milligrams per deciliter in your blood work, chances are you're low carbohydrate or you're very low carbohydrate.

--- Paul Saladino

He suggests that increasing carbohydrate intake can help lower LDL levels, providing a balanced approach to diet and cholesterol management.