Numbers don’t always tell the truth. We discuss our cholesterol numbers as if they are the sole factor contributing to heart and other cardiovascular diseases. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute concluded that approximately 50 percent of people suffering from heart attacks have shown “normal” cholesterol numbers. We are complex organisms and trying to reduce disease risk to a simplistic number is not only unrealistic, it may provide a false sense of security or insecurity.

Take “good” cholesterol otherwise known as HDL. The Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine wrote a review article in 2007 on “The Two Faces of the “good” Cholesterol.”While HDL cholesterol from healthy people is anti-inflammatory and protective against heart disease, under certain circumstances such as surgery, the flu, inflammatory diseases, eating foods high in saturated fat, diabetes and autoimmune disease, HDL can enhance inflammation and oxidation, which is associated with the development of plaque that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Measuring the lipoprotein subgroups is the only way to evaluate new risk factors, which is crucial for an accurate assessment of cardiovascular risk – according to the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP). Now there is an advanced cholesterol testing technology, which accurately measures both the density and number of lipoprotein particles.

In light of this information, consider taking one or more grams of high quality supplements such as fish oil and antioxidants, take measures to reduce inflammation such as flossing to reduce gingivitis, eating anti-inflammatory foods, decreasing saturated fats and refined and processed foods, and have advanced cholesterol testing to better evaluate risk and target therapy.

Dr. Lorraine Maita is a Diplomate in The American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine and Internal Medicine. She specializes in lifestyle, stress management, exercise, nutrition, supplements, executive physicals, neurocognitive function and bio-identical hormone replacement in Short Hills, NJ