IDL

Intermediate-Density Lipoproteins

What's

IDL

Intermediate-Density Lipoproteins (IDL) are a type of complex molecule that helps transport cholesterol and fats called triglycerides through your bloodstream. IDL is a temporary form that appears during the breakdown of very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL). As VLDL releases its triglycerides to your body's cells, it gets smaller and turns into IDL. This IDL can then be further broken down to become low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is often known as "bad cholesterol." So, IDL plays an important role in your body's fat metabolism, serving as a crucial connection in the movement of cholesterol and triglycerides from your liver to your body's cells.

If Your Levels Are High

Having higher than normal levels of IDL might mean that your body is having trouble processing fats and cholesterol properly. This could be due to various reasons, such as eating a diet rich in unhealthy fats, not getting enough exercise, or having a genetic tendency towards this issue. Some medications, like corticosteroids or beta blockers, could also affect your IDL levels. There are several conditions that might be linked to high IDL levels, including metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, or an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Keep in mind that there could be other factors at play, and this list is not exhaustive.

Symptoms of High Levels

Symptoms of high levels of IDL are typically not noticeable. However, over time, elevated IDL levels could contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which may lead to conditions like heart disease.

If Your Levels are Low

Low IDL levels might mean that something is off with the way your body handles fats and cholesterol. This could be due to things like your diet, how much you exercise, or even certain medications that affect how your body processes fats. Sometimes, low IDL levels can also be a sign of other issues, like problems with your liver. It's important to remember that your lifestyle plays a big role in how your body manages fats, and making changes to your diet or exercise habits can often have an impact on your IDL levels.

Symptoms of Low Levels

Symptoms of low levels of IDL are typically not noticeable as they directly don't cause any physical signs. However, if the low IDL is due to an underlying condition, symptoms related to that condition may be present.

See References

Test for

Intermediate-Density Lipoproteins

LipoMap

BostonHeart Diagnostics

Serum

The LipoMap is a 33-part lipid test that provides a comprehensive map of lipoprotein particles for clinical use. This test is performed by a high-resolution 600 MHz NMR instrument, allowing for more specific lipid, apolipoprotein, and lipoprotein particle measurements.

LipoMap and MetaboMap™

BostonHeart Diagnostics

Serum

The LipoMap and MetaboMap™ bundle provides a comprehensive analysis of lipoprotein particles, amino acids, and other metabolic health markers. Please be advised that Boston Heart Diagnostics policy states that practitioners cannot order labs on themselves or their immediate family members.

CONTENTS

What is it?

High Levels

Low Levels

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