Cholesterol
Recognising health in the blood
Cholesterol is more than just a laboratory value - it is a key marker for your cardiovascular health and your metabolic status. A differentiated cholesterol analysis provides valuable information, especially for people who are active in sports: How well does your fat metabolism work? How does your body react to training and diet? Are there any hidden risks?
In our practice, we do not look at cholesterol in isolation, but in the overall context of other values, your lifestyle and your goals.
Which laboratory values are important for the cholesterol profile?
A professional cholesterol profile goes beyond the known "total cholesterol" value. The decisive factor is the Detailed breakdown:
HDL cholesterol ("good" cholesterol): Protects the blood vessels, has an anti-inflammatory effect.
LDL cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol): Can be deposited on the walls of blood vessels.
Triglycerides: Fat molecules in the blood that increase with an unbalanced diet or insulin resistance.
Non-HDL cholesterolDifferentiated risk value for cardiovascular diseases.
Lipoprotein(a) (optional): Genetic risk factor - especially with a family history.
Our analyses are carried out in a specialised medical laboratory with precise evaluation.
Cholesterol & sport: What performance has to do with values
Regular physical activity has measurable effects on the cholesterol profile - positive and sometimes ambivalent:
HDL increases through moderate endurance training
LDL decreases through fat burning & weight reduction
Triglycerides fall after just a few weeks of exercise
Intensive endurance exercise can slightly increase cholesterol in the short term (physical stimulus), but is beneficial to health in the long term
Important: Even fit, slim people can have unfavourable cholesterol levels - often for genetic reasons. It therefore makes sense to have them analysed even without symptoms.
Why a cholesterol check is worthwhile for you
A targeted cholesterol status will help you:
Realistically assess your cardiovascular risk
Adapt your diet sensibly
Assess the effect of your training on your metabolism
Individualised prevention instead of blanket recommendations
Our practice not only offers you the values, but also a well-founded medical interpretation with specific recommendations for action - personalised, practical and understandable.
Frequently asked questions
Our practice focuses on your health and well-being.
What is the difference between HDL and LDL?
HDL is the "good" cholesterol that transports excess fat back to the liver. LDL is the "bad" cholesterol, which can be deposited on the walls of blood vessels.
Can sporty people also have bad cholesterol levels?
Yes - genetic factors, diet or hormonal influences can lead to increased values even in slim, active people.
How does sport change the cholesterol profile?
Endurance training improves HDL and lowers triglycerides. LDL can rise briefly during very intensive exercise, but this is usually harmless.
When should you start checking your cholesterol?
From the age of 25-30, especially if there is a family history or an unhealthy diet. Early detection is crucial.
How often should I have my values checked?
Once a year is sufficient for normal values. In the case of abnormal findings or lifestyle changes, we recommend more frequent monitoring.
What role does diet play in cholesterol?
Large - especially saturated fats and sugar influence LDL and triglycerides. Fibre, omega-3 fatty acids and plant sterols have a lowering effect.
Is the cholesterol check covered by health insurance?
In our practice billed according to GOÄis therefore usually assumed by private insurance companies, but not by statutory health insurance funds.
What is lipoprotein(a) and when should it be measured?
A genetically anchored value with an influence on the risk of heart attack. Useful if there is a positive family history or high total cholesterol despite a healthy lifestyle.
Deutsch
English (UK)