Since 1995 - Non Profit Healthcare Advice

OMEGA-3`s

05/13/2008

Question:

Is it true that Omega-3`s can increase LDL–but that this is okay because the LDL that is increased is the “large-particle” kind? And if that is true, then is it also true that high LDL is not even worrisome–as long as it is the “large-particle” kind? I have high LDL (229), high HDL (68) and high LDL Particle Count (1797). However, the particles are the Large Kind (22.9). I don`t have any other risks for heart disease–including family history. And I don`t want to take statins unless I absolutely have to. If I were your patient, based on the above, would you suggest medication–even though the LDL is the “large-particle” kind? Lipoprotein, Homocysteine–everything very much in the normal range. So my only “risk factor” is high HDL–but it`s the “large-particle” kind.

It doesn`t seem to me that I should risk the side effects of controversial statins just for this one risk factor–which I`m not even sure is a risk factor. I will talk to my doctor more about making this decision –but what do you think? IN YOUR OPINION, is High LDL (large-particle kind) alone–as a single risk factor-enough of a reason to put an otherwise healthy patient on statins? And, in your experience, is it true that Omega-3`s can elevate large-particle LDL? Thanks for your help.

Answer:

Thank you for visiting NetWellness. On this site, NetWellness experts try to answer general questions about health. Only a health professional performing a thorough clinical exam is able to evaluate your symptoms and render an opinion. However, NetWellness may have some general information available that you can access through our search feature. Feel free to write back if you still have questions or need an explanation.

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