Podcast Summary
Most people scan their cholesterol panel and zero in on the LDL. But could there be a better indicator of risk hiding in plain sight?
In this episode, Dr. Regina Druz walks through the standard lipid panel (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides) and explains why the context behind the numbers matters more than the numbers alone. She breaks down what each marker can and can’t tell you, why fasting makes a difference, and how calculated values like LDL can be misleading if the test wasn’t done correctly.
Dr. Druz also challenges the outdated idea of “good” and “bad” cholesterol and introduces a smarter way to think about risk: by focusing on the full picture, including ApoB and a simple ratio anyone can calculate with basic labs. That ratio? Triglycerides divided by HDL. It’s one of the clearest signals of insulin resistance, and one of the most overlooked.
Using a real patient example, Dr. Druz shows how to interpret results in context and why statins may not always be the answer. Could your elevated cholesterol actually be a sign of metabolic dysfunction? And if so, what would it take to reverse it?
As part two of the Statin Overprescribing Solution series, this episode offers a practical way to rethink your lipid profile, and a clear path toward better heart health!
Episode Breakdown:
- 00:00 Understanding the Lipid Profile
- 04:08 Cholesterol: Good, Bad, and Ugly
- 09:39 Importance of Fasting for Lipid Profile
- 14:05 Non-HDL Cholesterol and ApoB
- 21:21 Risk Categories: Low, Moderate, High, Very High, Extreme
- 32:00 Example Patient Case Study
- 40:09 Triglyceride to HDL Cholesterol Ratio
- 43:01 Insulin Resistance Indicator
- 46:03 Cardiometabolic Intervention
Listen to the Audio
Links
ASCVD Risk Estimator
Reynolds Risk Score
Learn More About Holistic Heart Centers
Schedule a Discovery CallAccess Courses and Events
Get Heartwell Toolkits
Schedule a Business Meeting
Connect with Dr. Regina Druz
Holistic Heart Centers WebsiteHolistic Heart Center YouTube Channel
Holistic Heart Center Instagram
Holistic Heart Center Facebook
Holistic Heart Center Twitter/X