What is a VLDL Test?

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is VLDL used for?

A VLDL cholesterol test helps assess heart diseases, stroke, heart attack, and evaluating cardiovascular conditions. The estimation of VLDL cholesterol in blood functions as a part of a triglyceride test or lipid panel test that helps clinicians in screening, monitoring, and diagnosing the preponderance of any cardiac or vascular health issues.

Indicating test results in VLDL Test

The test result is dependent on several factors like age, demography, gender, health history, and the method applied for conducting the test. The test results are given in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). Normal levels of VLDL are recognized to be less than or equal to 30 mg/dl. Higher VLDL cholesterol levels indicate the preponderance of CVD and associated heart diseases in the patients.

Why is the VLDL test needed?

A VLDL test is suggested if an individual poses a risk for developing CVD. The different risk factors that indicate the development of CVD are:

• Geriatric or old age
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Family history
• Hypertension
• Diabetes
• Obesity or overweight.

In case of the prevalence of any of the above-mentioned factors, the patient must check the VLDL test result and take necessary precautionary measures.

What happens during the VLDL test?

There is no direct procedure for measuring VLDL cholesterol; hence it is evaluated as a part of other cholesterol and triglycerides levels. The test is done by drawing a blood sample as suggested by the physician in a designated medical clinic or hospital. The sample is then sent to the recommended laboratory for further analysis.

What is a good level of VLDL?

It is an evident fact that VLDL constitutes the highest amount of triglycerides. It is considered bad as it helps in the gradual building up of cholesterol on the arterial walls. This poses considerable risks in developing cardiac issues and manifestations. The normal range of VLDL is reported to be between 2-30 mg/dl.

Why would VLDL be high?

The consumption of a high quantity of carbohydrates and sugar in the diet may lead to increased triglycerides and higher VLDL levels in the blood. The extra levels of triglycerides are stored in fat cells that are released later as and when required by the body. It is estimated that VLDL comprises approximately 70% of triglycerides.

Normal Range of VLDL:

The normal level of VLDL is estimated to be between 2-30 mg/dl; however, it may vary depending upon the infrastructure of different laboratories. It is important to talk to a doctor for accurate interpretation and deducing the results. A high level of VLDL is considered risky and may negatively impact the overall cardiovascular health of the patients.

How to reduce VLDL?

The significant way to reduce VLDL cholesterol is usually rendered by reducing the overall triglyceride content in the blood. This is achieved by regular exercise, following a healthy diet, and maintaining an active lifestyle. It is also imperative to avoid smoking, alcohol consumption, etc. In certain cases, medications are also suggested. However, it is based on the doctor’s advice.

What causes VLDL to rise?

The rise in VLDL level may result due to several factors. They are as under:

• Intake of a high carbohydrate or fat-rich diet.
• Consumption of alcohol.
• Presence of different metabolic disorders like hypertension, diabetes, etc.
• Leading a sedentary lifestyle.
• Family history or genetic predisposition, etc.
• The consumption of uncalculated calories also increases VLDL content in the blood.

Which is worse, VLDL or LDL?

VLDL and LDL are considered bad cholesterols and pose significant damage to the normal regulation of the body. However, they differ in their percentage composition of cholesterol, protein, and triglycerides constituting the lipoprotein. LDL contains a higher quantity of cholesterol than VLDL, which comprises triglycerides. Therefore, a higher concentration of LDL slightly enhances the chances of heart attacks in patients.

Does exercise reduce VLDL?

Regular exercise and lifestyle modification significantly reduce the overall triglyceride content in the blood, reducing VLDL. It is also important to monitor an individual's diet and overall lifestyle to obtain positive results within a short duration of time.