Lipoprotein A: What It Is and What It Indicates
Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a unique lipid particle in the blood, structurally similar to LDL cholesterol—often referred to as “bad cholesterol”—but with a key difference: it is bound to a specific protein called apolipoprotein(a).
This additional component makes Lp(a) particularly “sticky”, promoting arterial wall deposition, contributing to atherosclerosis, and increasing cardiovascular risk.
Unlike LDL cholesterol, Lp(a) levels are not influenced by diet or lifestyle; they are genetically determined. This means that even individuals with a balanced diet and normal cholesterol levels may have elevated Lp(a).
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), approximately 1 in 5 people have above-normal Lp(a) levels without being aware of it.
Purpose of Lp(a) Testing
The Lp(a) blood test identifies an inherited risk factor that can contribute to the early development of cardiovascular diseases, including:
- Myocardial infarction, even in individuals with normal total cholesterol
- Ischemic stroke
- Aortic stenosis
- Peripheral artery disease
The European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) recommends measuring Lp(a) at least once in a lifetime to assess individual cardiovascular risk.
Testing is particularly advised if:
- There is a family history of hypercholesterolemia or early heart attacks
- High LDL cholesterol persists despite diet and therapy
- Young individuals experience unexplained cardiovascular events
- A comprehensive lipid profile is desired for preventive purposes
Lipoprotein(a): Normal Values and When to Be Concerned
Reference values for Lp(a) can vary depending on the laboratory and the unit of measurement (mg/dL or nmol/L). Generally:
| Classification | Lp(a) Value |
|---|---|
| Optimal | |
| Moderately elevated | 30–50 mg/dL |
| High | > 50 mg/dL |
Recent studies indicate that values above 50 mg/dL can double the risk of cardiovascular events, even in individuals with controlled LDL cholesterol.
High Lp(a): Meaning and Symptoms
Elevated Lp(a) indicates a genetic predisposition to higher cardiovascular risk. There are no direct symptoms associated with high Lp(a); it is often discovered only through a blood test.
Many individuals with high Lp(a) may appear healthy and have normal total cholesterol levels, yet they can still develop early atherosclerotic plaques.
Lp(a) and Cardiovascular Risk
Lp(a) contributes to vascular damage through two main mechanisms:
- Atherogenic effect: Similar to LDL cholesterol, it accumulates in arterial walls.
- Pro-inflammatory and pro-thrombotic effect: The apolipoprotein(a) component interferes with clot degradation, promoting inflammation and thrombosis.
These characteristics make Lp(a) an independent cardiovascular risk marker, comparable to high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking.
How to Lower Lp(a)
Currently, there are no approved drugs that significantly lower Lp(a). Statins, which reduce LDL cholesterol, do not affect Lp(a) and may in some cases slightly increase it.
However, overall cardiovascular risk can be reduced by managing other modifiable factors:
- Keep LDL cholesterol below target levels
- Control blood pressure
- Follow a balanced diet low in saturated fats
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Promising clinical trials are ongoing for novel anti-Lp(a) therapies, such as antisense oligonucleotides (e.g., pelacarsen and olpasiran), with definitive results expected between 2025 and 2026.
How to Naturally Manage Lipoprotein(a) Levels
Genetics largely determine Lp(a) levels, so there is currently no way to directly lower elevated Lp(a). However, certain lifestyle strategies can help maintain an optimal overall lipid balance and reduce overall cardiovascular risk:
- Mediterranean diet rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and plant sterols
- Reduce intake of refined sugars and trans fats
- Manage stress levels
- Consider nutraceuticals that support a healthy lipid profile
- Regular aerobic exercise, at least 150 minutes per week
The Role of Nutraceuticals: Treacor for LDL Cholesterol Support
For individuals with increased cardiovascular risk, integrating nutraceuticals that target other lipid risk factors, such as LDL cholesterol, can be beneficial.
Treacor, a dietary supplement developed by Eidon Salus, provides natural support for maintaining balanced lipid profiles through a synergistic formulation:
- Monacolin K (fermented red yeast rice): Inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, reducing endogenous cholesterol production
- Berberine: Modulates PCSK9 gene activity, promoting lower plasma LDL cholesterol
- Silymarin: Enhances bioavailability and supports liver function
- Vitamin D3: Helps reduce homocysteine levels and supports cardiovascular health
Although Treacor does not directly lower Lp(a), it helps control related lipid parameters and can reduce overall cardiovascular risk associated with elevated Lp(a).
Lipoprotein(a): When to Be Concerned
It is advisable to consult a doctor or a cardiology/lipidology specialist if:
- There is a family history of early heart attack or stroke
- LDL cholesterol remains elevated despite therapy
- Lp(a) levels exceed 50 mg/dL
- You want a personalized assessment of cardiovascular risk
Early diagnosis and regular monitoring of lipid parameters remain the most effective strategies to prevent long-term cardiovascular complications.
Conclusions
Lipoprotein(a) is a genetic marker often overlooked but of significant clinical importance. While there are currently no targeted therapies to lower Lp(a), knowing your levels and taking preventive actions through healthy lifestyle choices and overall lipid management can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk.
In this context, Treacor by Eidon Salus can serve as a natural and scientifically balanced ally to help maintain LDL cholesterol under control and support a healthy lipid metabolism.
FAQ
It is a lipoprotein similar to LDL cholesterol, but with an additional protein component, apolipoprotein(a), which makes it more atherogenic and thrombogenic.
At least once in a lifetime, especially if there is a family history of hypercholesterolemia or early cardiovascular events.
Below 30 mg/dL is considered optimal. Levels above 50 mg/dL significantly increase cardiovascular risk.
There are no approved therapies to directly reduce Lp(a). It is crucial to control other lipid parameters and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
No, not directly. However, by acting on LDL cholesterol, homocysteine, and metabolic parameters, it helps reduce overall cardiovascular risk.
