What does the atherogenic coefficient mean in a blood test? Atherogenic coefficient – normal values. What is the atherogenic coefficient in a blood test?

It is worth knowing that the coefficient or atherogenic index is the ratio between “good” and total cholesterol, which can later be converted into LDL - low-density lipoproteins. Cholesterol (cholesterol) found in blood vessels can be “bad” or “good.” Both of these fractions are important for metabolism and have different effects on human health.

Why do you need an atherogenic index?

All people know about cholesterol often ends with the fact that its elevated level in the blood is bad. And having learned from the test results about its presence and not understanding these values, the patient independently begins to take medications that lower cholesterol, or follows a strict diet.

However, it is not enough to simply see that the level of a given substance has increased; you must be able to read the results of tests that require compliance certain rules. If you look at individual graphs, you will not be able to correctly understand and determine all the processes occurring in the human body. Therefore, in order to be able to determine the development of dangerous pathologies that are directly or indirectly influenced by “bad” cholesterol, a medical indicator such as the atherogenicity coefficient was introduced.

To understand what it means, you need to know that cholesterol is divided into “good” or HDL, and “bad” or LDL. The molecules of “good” cholesterol are too large to be absorbed into the body’s cells, so they concentrate harmful fat molecules around them and then send them to the liver for processing. In turn, “bad” cholesterol attaches to the walls of blood vessels and, thanks to the plaques formed there, the lumens narrow, which significantly impairs blood circulation. But, in addition to this, human blood also contains total cholesterol, which is endowed with an “unbound” state.

Also, determination of the atherogenic index is necessary in the following cases:

during the first examination of the patient;
control of cholesterol dynamics, which is necessary during drug therapy;
diagnosis of the development of pathologies of liver and thyroid cells.

Types of cholesterol and atherogenicity coefficient

Most of the cholesterol (approximately 80%) is produced in the liver, the rest enters the body with food. Cholesterol takes an active part in the synthesis of cell membranes, hormones and bile acids. Since it is almost insoluble in liquid, a special shell consisting of proteins is formed around cholesterol particles, which is necessary for transporting cholesterol.

This shell compound is called lipoproteins, and several of its varieties circulate in the blood vessels of people, which differ in the proportion of components included in the composition:

LDL – low level of lipoproteins.
HDL – high level of lipoproteins.

HDL contains very little cholesterol, so it consists almost entirely of protein. The main function of “good” cholesterol (HDL) is to transport excess fractions to the liver for processing. HDL accounts for approximately 30% of total blood cholesterol. If the concentration of LDL exceeds HDL, this leads to the appearance of cholesterol plaques that accumulate in the vessels, gradually narrowing them and impairing blood circulation, which causes various diseases, for example, stroke, heart attack and so on.

When medically calculating the atherogenicity coefficient, the following formula is used:

KO = (Total cholesterol - HDL) /HDL

The normal and acceptable coefficient for a healthy person differs in different laboratories and ranges from 2-2.5 units. Moreover, this index should not exceed 3.2 for females and 3.5 for males.

An increased index indicates the development of certain diseases in the body, whereas if the atherogenicity coefficient is reduced, this is not a cause for concern, since the risk of cholesterol plaques, and therefore various diseases, is extremely small.

Therefore, if the question arises that the atherogenic coefficient is reduced, what is it, then you need to remember that this fact is not diagnostically valuable and only indicates that the patient has an increased level of HDL in the body, which does not pose any danger to his health. Before starting medical therapy, doctors try to normalize KA or lower it.

What to do if the coefficient is high

This can be achieved in the following ways:

changing lifestyle and diet;
taking special medications.

Due to lifestyle, the coefficient increases due to the following factors:

Bad habits such as smoking, drugs and drinking alcohol cause disruption of synthesis fat metabolism, and also slow it down a lot.
A sedentary and inactive lifestyle causes stagnation, as a result of which fats are synthesized very actively.

To normalize the level of the coefficient, it is necessary to lead a healthy and active lifestyle, as well as give up bad and destructive habits.

A sharp increase in the atherogenic index in connection with diet is caused by the consumption of foods such as sausage, dairy products high fat content, spread and margarine, which are based on palm oil.

You need to reduce their consumption as much as possible by including the following products in your diet:

boiled fish;
natural chocolate;
green tea;
fruits and vegetables, healthy beets;
different types of nuts;

It is also possible to reduce the atherogenic index using drug therapy (statins).

However, they have a large number of side effects, so they should be taken only on the recommendation of a specialist, solely according to indications, in special cases.

What can affect blood test results?

When determining the atherogenicity coefficient, it is necessary to take into account factors that can significantly change the test results.

These include the following factors:

Following a strict and rigid diet, practically starvation. In order for the body to avoid exhaustion and gain strength and energy, it has to be content with fat reserves, as a result of which lipoproteins penetrate into the vessels and can lead to an artificial increase in the index.
Use of hormonal drugs.
Smoking and alcohol abuse, as well as taking drugs.
Violation hormonal levels as a result of medications, pregnancy, menopause and menstruation.

Indicators of the atherogenic coefficient will be reduced in cases where:

the patient takes medicines, lowering cholesterol;
the patient follows a low-cholesterol diet;
the patient constantly plays sports and performs physical exercise(however this has not been fully proven).

It turns out that KA is a kind of proportion of total cholesterol to lipoproteins high density.

I recently had a lipid profile done in the laboratory, and it turned out that my atherogenicity coefficient was normal. However, in order to keep it this way in the future, I’m thinking of giving up eating sausage - as follows from the article, this product helps to increase KA.

My grandmother, who is already 85 years old, has a reduced coefficient of atherogenicity and is prescribed treatment. It turns out that there is nothing dangerous in the reduced atherogenicity coefficient, then why is treatment prescribed?

Atherogenic coefficient - what is it?

Many people have heard about the dangers of cholesterol and the serious diseases associated with it.

Due to insufficient knowledge, some people go on strict diets and begin to cleanse blood vessels traditional methods or, even worse, take medications that can harm your health.

However, cholesterol is naturally present in the body and performs important functions. It differs in factions, some of which are beneficial, others are harmful. In order to distinguish between good and bad cholesterol, a biochemical blood test is performed to determine the atherogenic coefficient (AC).

The term atherogenicity determines the ratio of cholesterol fractions, where “bad” predominates.

Thus, calculating the atherogenicity coefficient makes it possible to determine the degree of risk of developing atherosclerosis.

Cholesterol is found in the blood in the form of complex compounds that are soluble. It is bound to proteins, and such a compound is called lipoprotein (lipoprotein).

The following lipoproteins are distinguished:

high molecular weight HDL are characterized by high density;
low molecular weight LDL has low density;
very low molecular weight VLDL compounds have minimal density.

In order to determine the risk of vascular diseases, it is advisable to calculate all groups of complex compounds (lipoproteins). For a doctor studying a lipid profile, indicators of total cholesterol, its fractions and triglyceride are important. The latter belongs to fats and is a product of carboxylic acids and trihydric alcohol glycerol.

How is the cholesterol atherogenic coefficient formed?

Approximately 80% of cholesterol is produced in the liver, gonads, adrenal glands, kidneys and intestines. The rest enters the body with food. Cholesterol interacts with apoliproteins (proteins), forming compounds of high and low density.

If cholesterol enters the body from the outside, it is part of chylomicrons, which are synthesized in the intestines. The compound then enters the bloodstream.

Low molecular weight lipoproteins are transported from the liver to tissues, high molecular weight lipoproteins are transported to the liver, and chylomicrons are transported to the liver and peripheral tissues.

HDL is produced by the liver. Chylomicrons, entering the liver, are converted into LDL and HDL, depending on the apoliprotein with which cholesterol forms a compound.

Low-density lipoproteins are called atherogenic. If they are produced a large number of, then more enters the cells fatty acids. Fats are removed from cells by binding them to HDL. Once in the liver, cholesterol is finally hydrolyzed.

The atherogenic coefficient shows which lipoproteins are more present in the blood. If it is low molecular weight, then the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis increases.

Ratio of “good” and “bad” cholesterol

Blood cholesterol levels may vary. For one person it will be 7 units, for another - 4. The total cholesterol (TC) indicator does not give a complete picture of whether there is a risk of cholesterol deposits forming in the vessels or not.

For example, if in the first case high cholesterol levels are achieved due to elevated HDL, then the likelihood of atherosclerosis is low. High-density lipoproteins are responsible for transporting fats from cells to the liver, where they are processed. If HDL is high, then they speak of antiatherogenicity.

In the second case, LDL may be elevated, and the level of high molecular weight compounds may be low. This situation characterizes high atherogenicity.

For the development of atherosclerosis, it is not necessary to greatly exceed the level of low molecular weight compounds. Low level HDL can also cause pathological processes.

In order to correctly determine whether there are violations or not, the difference between these indicators is calculated. For example, with a coefficient of 2 mmol/l, LDL is twice as large.

Atherogenic coefficient indicators:

up to 3 - within normal limits;
up to 4 - an increased indicator, which can be reduced with diets and increased physical activity;
above 4 - a high risk of developing atherosclerosis, which requires treatment.

High levels of “bad” cholesterol occur as a result of an unbalanced diet. Eating large amounts of fatty foods disrupts lipid metabolism, which leads to an increase in the amount of low-density lipoproteins.

High molecular weight compounds are synthesized only in the liver. They do not come from food, but polyunsaturated fats, which belong to the Omega-3 class and are present in fatty fish, can help increase this fraction.

About the causes of atherosclerosis

The main cause of the development of atherosclerosis is considered to be an increased level of low molecular weight fractions of cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol settles on the walls of blood vessels, and over time the deposits grow, narrowing the lumen and forming plaques.

In places where cholesterol accumulates, calcium salts are deposited, which cause pathological changes in blood vessels: loss of elasticity and dystrophy.

However, this is not the only cause of atherosclerotic changes in blood vessels. The disease can develop against the background viral infections, age-related changes, unhealthy lifestyle and a number of diseases. Therefore, we can talk about a group of people who are most susceptible to developing pathology.

heredity;
age-related changes after 50 years;
gender (pathology occurs more often in men);
increased body weight;
low level of physical activity;
diabetes;
hypertonic disease;
infections (cytomegalovirus, herpes, chlamydia);
smoking.

When the atherogenic coefficient is above 3 mol/l, cholesterol begins to accumulate on the walls of blood vessels. If this indicator is higher, then the process goes faster.

As a result, cholesterol plaques are formed, which can be destroyed, turning into blood clots. In this case, a person is diagnosed with a dangerous disease such as thromboembolism, which can lead to sudden death.

Atherogenicity index: norm in women and reasons for increasing the atherogenicity coefficient

Vascular atherosclerosis more often affects men, so the standards established for them are higher than for the fair sex. The atherogenicity coefficient is reduced in women due to the action of the hormone estrogen.

The hormone has a positive effect on the walls of blood vessels, providing them with good elasticity, which protects against the formation of cholesterol deposits. Cholesterol settles on damaged areas of blood vessels.

If the vessels have become inelastic, then as a result of blood turbulence, multiple damage to the walls occurs, and cholesterol is fixed in these places. Due to the natural mechanism of vascular protection, women are less likely to be diagnosed with diseases such as strokes and heart attacks.

The atherogenicity coefficient is reduced in women only up to 50 years of age. After menopause, the hormone ceases to protect blood vessels and women become susceptible to the development of atherosclerosis in the same way as men.

Lipoprotein level up to 50 years (mmol/l):

total cholesterol - 3.6-5.2;
high-density lipoproteins - 0.86-2.28;
low molecular weight compounds - 1.95-4.51.

The atherogenic index is calculated using the formula where AI is determined by the difference in total cholesterol and high-density lipoproteins divided by HDL.

Atherogenicity index in women: norm by age (mmol/l):

up to the age of thirty - up to 2.2;
after thirty - up to 3.2.

After fifty years of age, the atherogenic index in women is calculated according to the norm for men.

Reasons for increased rates in women

The first reason for increased KA in women is not proper nutrition. If your diet contains a lot of fatty foods: pork, butter, sour cream, etc., then this contributes to the accumulation of fats in the body. Cells do not need LDL in large quantities, so they constantly circulate in the blood in large quantities.

Another reason is related to the first. If fat is not consumed as a result physical activity, then it accumulates in cells and the level of low molecular weight lipoproteins in the blood also increases.

Smoking slows down the metabolism of fats, which also leads to increased cholesterol levels in the blood. It is noteworthy that alcohol enhances the process of lipid metabolism.

However, you should not use it for this purpose, since alcoholic drink calls others dangerous diseases, and also prevents normal operation liver, which is important for the synthesis of HDL.

The reason for the deviation of the atherogenic index from the norm in women may be heredity, which negatively affects lipid metabolism.

One way or another, a violation of protein-fat metabolism contributes to an increase in KA. Therefore, when analyzing blood, such an indicator as the level of triglycerides is also taken into account.

1.78-2.2 is the norm;
2.2-5.6 - increased level;
above 5.6 - high concentration.

On the Internet, women are interested in the question: what to do if the atherogenic factor in the blood test form is increased. This KA indicator can occur for various reasons, so the approach to treatment must be individualized.

Depending on the value of the coefficient, cholesterol reduction can be achieved through a diet that excludes animal fats, exercise, or drug therapy aimed at reducing cholesterol synthesis.

For the purpose of exclusion negative influence cholesterol on blood vessels, concomitant diseases should be treated: cytomegalovirus or chlamydial infection, diabetes mellitus, hypertension. During menopause, women are prescribed estrogen replacement therapy.

Atherogenicity coefficient: the norm in men and methods for reducing blood cholesterol

If vascular atherosclerosis affects women after sixty years, then in men it develops earlier. The atherogenic index is increased due to the fact that blood vessels lose their elasticity faster, and therefore the risk of developing vascular pathologies is higher.

Lipoprotein levels in men (mmol/l):

total cholesterol - 3.5-6.0;
high-density lipoproteins - 0.7-1.76;
low molecular weight compounds - 2.21-4.81.

After years, normal values may change as they are disrupted natural processes protein-fat metabolism.

Atherogenicity coefficient: norm for men by age (mmol/l):

Reasons for increased rates in men

The reasons for increased KA, just like in women, are disturbances in protein-fat metabolism. These include oversaturation of the body with animal fats, a sedentary lifestyle, stress, smoking and other factors that negatively affect fat metabolism.

In some cases, the atherogenicity coefficient may be increased while taking hormonal drugs. However, this occurs only during treatment and after stopping medication, the patient sees the atherogenic index as normal on the test form.

A biochemical blood test in men also reveals the level of lipid energy reserves in the body. Triglyceride levels coincide with the standards established for women.

First of all, men should change their lifestyle: give up bad habits, increase physical activity and reduce the amount of animal fats consumed. Of course, you should not become a vegetarian if you are used to meat.

However, you should choose lean beef or fish, and steam the food rather than fry it. If you can’t seriously engage in sports, then regular walking will help. For example, you can walk to work instead of taking public transport.

If the KA is exceeded significantly, the doctor prescribes conservative treatment, which consists of taking satins that reduce cholesterol synthesis in the body.

Atherogenic index: how to calculate and what to do to reduce it

To determine KA, blood is taken from the patient and a biochemical analysis of the material is performed. Blood is taken from a vein in the morning, since you cannot eat for eight hours before taking the test.

To determine the fractions of lipid compounds in the laboratory, sedimentation and photometry methods are used. Then the atherogenic coefficient is calculated.

Having become familiar with the concept of atherogenicity index, we will consider how to calculate it using different formulas below.

The basic formula of the atherogenic index, which is usually used when processing blood test data, looks like this: AI = (C - HDL) / HDL, where AI is the atherogenic index, cholesterol is total cholesterol, HDL is a high-molecular compound.

In some cases, it is necessary to calculate the atherogenic coefficient index taking into account low and very low density lipoproteins. The latter are detected through the concentration of triglycerides. VLDL = TG/2.2. Thus, general formula looks like this: AI = (LDL + TG/2.2) / HDL.

The atherogenic coefficient, the norm of which is exceeded, requires establishing the cause of this condition. A lipid metabolism disorder does not necessarily occur; an increase in KA can be caused by pregnancy or other temporary hormonal imbalances. Therefore, you should not self-medicate, otherwise you can disrupt the natural mechanisms of the body.

For some diseases, treatment with hormonal drugs is prescribed, in which the norm of the atherogenic coefficient increases. The progress of treatment is monitored by a doctor who determines the risks and, if the development of another pathology is suspected, may change therapy.

Diets help reduce the atherogenicity coefficient. However, this approach may also have reverse side. For example, a person’s strict restriction of fats, on the contrary, provokes increased production of lipids in the body. Therefore, the organization of nutrition without excess fat must be competent.

Products to exclude:

sausages and other products containing animal fat;
lard, fatty pork and lamb, butter, sour cream, egg yolks;
trans fats, which are included in margarine, spreads and other similar products.

Foods you need to eat to replenish your body with fats:

sea fish of fatty varieties;
nuts, especially walnuts;
vegetable oils: olive, flaxseed, sunflower.

Green tea and freshly squeezed juices from fruits and vegetables will be a good addition to a healthy diet. Don't forget about clean water, which promotes natural cleansing of the body. You should drink at least 1.5 liters per day, not including other drinks.

If the atherogenic index is significantly increased, the doctor prescribes drug therapy. Medicines used include satins, which reduce cholesterol production, cation exchangers, which bind bile acids in the intestines, and drugs with omega-3 fats, which lower HDL levels.

An alternative drug treatment is a procedure for mechanical blood purification, which is called extracorporeal hemocorrection. For this purpose, the patient's blood is taken from a vein, passed through special filters and injected back into the vein.

What forms a low atherogenicity coefficient:

taking blood tests while lying down;
diets excluding animal fats;
active sports or other physical activity;
taking a number of medications: medications containing estrogens, colchicine, antifungal agents, clofibrate, satins.

A low atherogenicity coefficient characterizes clean vessels and does not require any treatment. Such tests are often observed in young women, and this is considered normal.

If, against the background of a decrease in total cholesterol levels, HDL decreases, then this cannot be called good treatment. In this case, taking satins that reduce cholesterol production is considered ineffective and dangerous, since the body is deprived of an important component that regulates natural processes.

Remember that self-medication is dangerous to your health! Be sure to consult your doctor! The information on the site is presented solely for popular information purposes and does not claim to be reference or medical accuracy, and is not a guide to action.

Naive look

for a serious life

It is not the person who is harmful cholesterol level and atherogenic coefficient. There is also such an indicator of the ratio of harmful and beneficial cholesterol in the body - this is the atherogenic coefficient. The atherogenic coefficient is within normal limits if it is from 2 to 3 units.

Atherogenicity is a concept reflecting the relationship between bad and good fats. To identify this indicator, a special coefficient has been introduced. The atherogenicity coefficient is determined based on biochemical analysis blood taken in the morning from a vein on an empty stomach. The resulting standards differ in each laboratory, but the level of atherogenicity is not distorted.

For example, high atherogenicity is determined by the presence of the LDL fraction. The HDL fraction is antiatherogenic. It should be understood that the higher their concentration, the lower the atherogenicity. The higher their concentration in the blood, the higher the atherogenic coefficient. It should be understood that there are no generalized values for assessing atherogenicity. If cholesterol is formed exclusively by LDL with a low HDL content - high coefficient atherogenicity.

Despite the presence of the provoking factors described above, the mechanism of atherogenicity has not yet been fully elucidated. The atherogenicity coefficient has become an indicator for doctors to prescribe anticholesterol drugs if it exceeds normal values.

Otherwise, the difference coefficient between different types cholesterol levels may go through the roof compared to others pathological changes. Any average person knows that high cholesterol levels in the blood are “bad.”

The atherogenic coefficient is the balance of “good” cholesterol and total cholesterol, which in the future may turn into a bound state (LDL), and represents their proportional ratio. The norm of the atherogenic index varies from laboratory to laboratory, in general, this indicator is normal in the range from 3 to 3.5 (sometimes said about 4.5) units.

However, the coefficient alone does not allow us to accurately state the presence of the disease. If the atherogenicity index is below the specified norm, there is no cause for concern. If the results laboratory research revealed a high coefficient, which indicates that the body produces predominantly “bad” cholesterol. Taking medications is another way to reduce the atherogenic index.

Thus, the atherogenic index (or coefficient) is the proportion of total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein complex. In medicine, cholesterol in women and men is usually divided into good and bad.

Atherogenic coefficient - what is it? What is the norm?

Remember, a normal level of cholesterol in the blood is the health of your blood vessels. My overall score is 7.0 (clearly high), HDL = 2.6, therefore the coefficient is 1.69, that is, lower than normal and usual.

If the atherogenicity coefficient is increased (more than 3-4 units), this indicates a relatively high risk of developing atherosclerosis. Its lowest value is observed in newborns (as a rule, their atherogenic coefficient is 1), and over the years it constantly increases.

It is known that with the accumulation of “harmful” lipids in the body, the tendency to deposit fatty plaques in the walls of blood vessels increases - atherosclerosis. To make it clear to readers what is what in the mechanisms of fat metabolism, we suggest considering the topic in more detail.

If you look at the biochemical blood test form, next to the effective value it shows wide normal limits, which make it possible to unify the method separately for each laboratory. The lipidogram reflects the level of various fractions of lipids (fatty acids) in the blood serum after sedimentation. Each of these compounds performs its own function and affects the formation of cholesterol plaques in the vessel wall.

Triglycerides are the transport form. As a result, when their values in the blood increase, we can talk about a high risk of atherosclerosis. When fatty acids are taken in with food, they are broken down into gastrointestinal tract with the help of enzymes and bilirubin.

Next, glycerol in the blood interacts with cholesterol. Low-density lipoproteins are atherogenic, since the more they are produced in the body, the higher the concentration of fatty acids is delivered into the cells. The remaining fats, after they are converted in the cell, are removed by binding to high-density lipoproteins. Transport form - triglycerides are an indirect indicator that reflects general level fats in the body.

Good cholesterol (HDL) is a fraction that prevents the accumulation of lipids in the cell. To prevent fats from concentrating, it is necessary to transport and neutralize them in the liver. This task is assigned to high-density lipoproteins.

Normal blood cholesterol levels in women

High-density lipoproteins bring fats into tissues. They found that excess deposition of fatty acids in the vascular wall is combined with its damage and subsequent accumulation of calcium in the plaque.

At the first stage, the vessel wall is affected, and cholesterol deposits accumulate in the cells (coefficient greater than 2.5). Then a fibrous plaque forms, clogging the lumen of the vessel. Finally, in an advanced stage, the plaque can break away from its primary location and cause thromboembolism. Complex molecules of good cholesterol are too large to be absorbed into tissues; they “collect” molecules of “bad” fatty alcohol and transport them to the liver for processing.

Thus, the coefficient of difference in atherogenicity between LDL and HDL content reflects the likelihood of atherosclerosis formation. To calculate the atherogenic coefficient, you first need to determine the total cholesterol level and the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Atherogenic coefficient (AC): what is it, the norm in the blood, why is it increased, how to lower it

In the biochemical blood test form, after the list of all cholesterol, there is such an indicator as the atherogenic coefficient (AC). It is clear that its values are calculated, and this is done quite quickly, using a special formula, but the entire lipid spectrum, which is the basis of these calculations, is classified as a rather labor-intensive analysis.

In order to obtain adequate KA values, it is desirable to know the concentrations of all cholesterol (total, high and low density) and triglycerides, although the most popular calculation formula includes only indicators of total cholesterol and high-density lipoproteins.

Atherogenicity

Atherogenicity is the correlation between harmful and beneficial cholesterol in human blood, which forms the basis for the calculation of a special indicator called the coefficient or atherogenicity index.

The norm of the atherogenic coefficient fluctuates between 2 and 3 (arbitrary units or without any units, since it is still a coefficient);
Fluctuations in KA within 3 - 4 already indicate that not everything is fine in the body, however, the likelihood of vascular damage remains moderate and the situation can still be improved with the help of diet;
Indicators above 4 indicate a high risk of developing atherosclerosis and coronary disease heart, so such people already need a diet, periodic monitoring of lipid spectrum parameters, and, possibly, the prescription of drugs that reduce the level of harmful lipids in the blood.

The atherogenic coefficient in men is slightly higher than in women, but normally it should still not exceed 3 conventional units. True, after 50 years, when a woman remains without hormonal protection, gender influences the atherogenicity index indicators less and less, and the risk of the formation of an atherosclerotic process under certain circumstances becomes high in both cases. By the way, after 50 years, people of both sexes should pay maximum attention to the values of the lipid spectrum and KA, since metabolic processes are inhibited, and the body begins to gradually lose the ability to cope with food and other loads as before.

It is known that such an indicator as total cholesterol in a biochemical blood test does not provide enough information to judge the state of lipid metabolism. Here it is very important to know the ratio of atherogenic (harmful, bad) cholesterol - low and very low density lipoproteins (LDL, VLDL), and antiatherogenic (beneficial, protective) high density lipoprotein (HDL).

Penetrating into the blood as a result of fat metabolism, all fractions are sent to the intima of blood vessels, but LDL carries cholesterol with it in order to leave it there for metabolism and accumulation, and HDL, on the contrary, constantly tries to take it out from there. It’s clear: whichever cholesterol has the most will win.

The accumulation of bad (atherogenic) fats in the body, which we consume with food, leads to the fact that they begin to be deposited on the walls of blood vessels, affecting them. These deposits, known as atherosclerotic plaques, give rise to the development of such pathological process like atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis, depending on the location of the lesion, forms other diseases of cardio-vascular system, which are now often the cause of human death. In general, everyone is well informed about atherosclerosis, plaques, and cholesterol, but the last indicator of the lipid spectrum (atherogenic coefficient) remains a mystery for many people.

Meanwhile, just one number (KA) can tell whether the atherosclerotic process is going on and how high the degree of its progression is, whether it is worth pursuing active struggle with bad cholesterol, even taking special medications called statins, or you can continue to indulge in your favorite diet, ignore an active lifestyle and not worry about anything.

Great analysis and simple calculation

In order to calculate the atherogenicity coefficient, it is necessary to perform several biochemical laboratory tests, namely: determine the concentration of total cholesterol and the level of high-density lipoproteins (anti-atherogenic). However, in most cases, for people who have problems or suspicions of them, it is advisable to study fat metabolism on a larger scale, that is, to actually analyze lipid spectrum indicators:

Total cholesterol, which includes high, low and very low density lipoproteins (therefore, when calculating the CA of HDL, we subtract - to leave LDL + VLDL);
High-density lipoproteins (HDL), which have protective properties regarding the formation of atherosclerotic plaques;
Low-density lipoproteins (LDL), which form cholesterol plaques on the walls of blood vessels;
Triacylglycerides (TG) are esters of higher fatty acids that are formed in the liver and released into the blood as part of very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL). A high concentration of TG in the blood makes analysis difficult.

The atherogenicity index is calculated using the formula:

This expression can be replaced by another relation:

In the latter case, to calculate the atherogenic coefficient, in addition to HDL, it becomes necessary to precipitate low-density lipoproteins and calculate very low-density lipoproteins through the concentration of triglycerides (CSlponp = TG (mmol/l)/2.2). In addition, in some laboratories, doctors use other formulas when the above-mentioned lipoproteins are involved in the calculations. For example, the calculation of the atherogenic coefficient can be presented in this way:

It is obvious that fluctuations in KA and the transition beyond normal limits are influenced by the concentration of lipid spectrum parameters, mainly total cholesterol, which includes low- and very low-density lipoproteins, too, and anti-atherogenic HDL.

When the index is raised

An increased atherogenicity coefficient (above 4) already indicates that atherosclerotic plaques are beginning to be deposited on the walls of blood vessels (and where should LDL and VLDL, which are constantly present in high concentrations, go?). It should be noted that with significant progression of the atherosclerotic process, this index can be so high that it is several times higher than the number 4, which we took as a guide.

Meanwhile, many people wonder: why one can do everything (and at the same time maintain low atherogenicity of the blood plasma), while the other has complete restrictions. Here, too, everything is individual. A high level of total cholesterol due to low-density lipoproteins (along with the influence of nutrition) is typical for people with other pathologies or lifestyles that contribute to its formation:

Aggravated heredity in relation to cardiovascular pathology, the development of which is based on the atherosclerotic process;
Constant psycho-emotional stress;
Excess body weight;
Bad habits (smoking, alcohol, drugs and other psychotropic substances);
Endocrine diseases (diabetes mellitus – primarily);
Wrong lifestyle (sedentary work and lack of desire to do physical exercise in your free time).

It should be noted that in other cases this indicator is increased not at all due to the patient having a lipid metabolism disorder. Doctors deliberately increase the level of the atherogenic index by prescribing certain hormonal drugs. However, as is known, one chooses the lesser of two evils... Moreover, if you follow all the recommendations, this will not last long, and the CA will not exceed the permissible limits similar situations meanings.

The cholesterol coefficient of atherogenicity can be increased if a blood test is done during conditions that are significantly dependent on hormones (pregnancy, menstruation).

Oddly enough (for those who are going to starve), but “quick” diets for the purpose of losing weight will only increase the indicator, because, without receiving the necessary food from the outside, the body will actively begin to use its own fat reserves, which, entering the bloodstream, will certainly affect the results of the blood test, if performed at that moment.

Low atherogenicity

No one is struggling with this phenomenon, because there is no concern about the development of atherosclerosis, and in such cases there is no talk of other diseases. Meanwhile, the atherogenicity coefficient is sometimes less than the above figures (2 – 3), although in healthy young women it often fluctuates between 1.7 – 1.9. And this is considered the absolute norm. Moreover - very good result, which can be envied: clean elastic vessels without any plaques or other signs of damage. But, as mentioned above, in women after 50 years, everything can change - estrogens decrease and cease to protect the female body.

Also, a low atherogenic index can be expected in the following cases:

A long-term diet that involves targeted reduction of cholesterol (foods low in “bad” fats);
Treatment with statin drugs for hypercholesterolemia;
Active sports, which, however, causes conflicting opinions among experts.

The atherogenic index is considered one of the main criteria that determines the effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapy. CA helps the doctor monitor the progress of treatment and select the correct medications, because the goal of statins is not only to reduce total cholesterol and calm down. These medications are designed to increase the concentration of the beneficial, anti-atherogenic fraction - high-density lipoproteins, which will protect the vascular walls. A decrease in HDL during treatment with statins gives reason to believe that the treatment was not chosen correctly, and continuing it not only makes no sense, but is also harmful, because in this way you can also accelerate the development of atherosclerosis. The reader has probably already guessed that the reduction of the atherogenicity coefficient by statin drugs own initiative can cause irreparable harm, so doctors strongly do not recommend experimenting in this way. The patient himself can reduce the concentration of bad cholesterol and reduce KA values, but these will be completely different measures.

How to help your blood vessels?

First of all, a patient who has taken a course to reduce cholesterol containing low and very low density lipoproteins should radically change their lifestyle, diet and give up bad habits.

If physical activity is limited due to another disease, you need to visit a doctor and develop an individual plan for feasible physical exercise. But don’t forget: movement is life!

In the absence of contraindications, especially lazy people who are not used to leaving a cozy apartment can organize physical exercise at home - 30 - 40 minutes every other day. Well, those who are “fast on the uptake” can go for walks, ride a bike, play tennis, or swim in the pool on weekends. It’s both useful and pleasant, and there’s always time if you want.

As for diet, it is not at all necessary to join the ranks of vegetarians. Being a natural carnivore, humans need animal products that contain amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the human body. It’s just advisable to give preference to lean varieties of meat and fish, and heat treatment should be done by steaming or boiling (do not fry!). It is good to add various teas to your diet that lower cholesterol levels (green tea, infusions and decoctions of medicinal herbs).

And finally: if a person wants to get an adequate result of his lipid spectrum and KA, then he should come for a blood test not only on an empty stomach, but fast for an hour the day before - then there will be no needless worries, and the study will not need to be repeated.

In order to obtain adequate CA values, it is advisable to know the concentrations of all cholesterols( , ) and, although the most popular calculation formula includes only indicators of total cholesterol and high-density lipoproteins.

Atherogenicity

Atherogenicity is the correlation between harmful and beneficial cholesterol in human blood, which forms the basis for the calculation of a special indicator called the atherogenicity coefficient or index.

It is known that such an indicator as total cholesterol in a biochemical blood test does not provide enough information to judge the state of lipid metabolism. Here it is very important to know the ratio of atherogenic (harmful, bad) cholesterol - low and very low density (LDL, VLDL), and anti-atherogenic (beneficial, protective) high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Penetrating into the blood as a result of fat metabolism, all fractions are sent to the intima of blood vessels, but LDL carries cholesterol with it in order to leave it there for metabolism and accumulation, and HDL, on the contrary, constantly tries to take it out from there. It’s clear: whichever cholesterol has the most will win.

The accumulation of bad (atherogenic) fats in the body, which we consume with food, leads to the fact that they begin to be deposited on the walls of blood vessels, affecting them. These deposits, known as, give rise to the development of a pathological process such as atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis, depending on the location of the lesion, forms other diseases of the cardiovascular system, which are currently often cause death person. In general, everyone is well informed about atherosclerosis, plaques, and cholesterol, but the last indicator of the lipid spectrum (atherogenic coefficient) remains a mystery for many people.

Meanwhile, exactly one number (CA) can tell whether the atherosclerotic process is in progress and how high is the degree of its progression, is it worthwhile to actively fight bad cholesterol, even to the point of taking special drugs called statins, or can you continue to indulge in your favorite diet, ignore an active lifestyle and not worry about anything.

Great analysis and simple calculation

In order to calculate the atherogenic coefficient, it is necessary to perform, namely: determine the concentration of total cholesterol and the level of high-density lipoproteins (anti-atherogenic). However, in most cases, for people who have problems or suspicions of them, it is advisable to study fat metabolism on a larger scale, that is, to actually analyze lipid spectrum indicators:

Total cholesterol, which includes high, low and very low density lipoproteins (therefore, when calculating the CA of HDL, we subtract - to leave LDL + VLDL);
High-density lipoproteins (HDL), which have protective properties against the formation of atherosclerotic plaques;
Low-density lipoproteins (LDL), which form cholesterol plaques on the walls of blood vessels;
Triacylglycerides (TG) are esters of higher fatty acids that are formed in the liver and released into the blood as part of very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL). A high concentration of TG in the blood makes analysis difficult.

The atherogenicity index is calculated using the formula:

This expression can be replaced by another relation:

When the index is raised

An increased atherogenicity coefficient (above 4) already indicates that atherosclerotic plaques begin to be deposited on the walls of blood vessels(Where should LDL and VLDL, which are constantly present in high concentrations, go?). It should be noted that with significant progression of the atherosclerotic process, this index can be so high that it is several times higher than the number 4, which we took as a guide.

Aggravated heredity in relation to cardiovascular pathology, the development of which is based on the atherosclerotic process;
Constant psycho-emotional stress;
Excess body weight;
Bad habits (smoking, alcohol, drugs and other psychotropic substances);
Endocrine diseases (-primarily);
Wrong lifestyle (sedentary work and lack of desire to do physical exercise in your free time).

It should be noted that in other cases this indicator is increased not at all due to the patient having a lipid metabolism disorder. Doctors deliberately increase the level of the atherogenic index by prescribing certain hormonal drugs. However, as is known, one chooses the lesser of two evils... Moreover, if you follow all the recommendations, this will not last long, and the CA will not exceed the values permissible in such situations.

The cholesterol coefficient of atherogenicity can be increased if a blood test is done during conditions that are significantly dependent on hormones (pregnancy, menstruation).

Oddly enough (for those who are going to starve), but “quick” diets for the purpose of losing weight will only increase the indicator, because, without receiving the necessary food from the outside, the body will actively begin to use its own fat reserves, which, entering the bloodstream, will certainly affect the results of the blood test, if performed at that moment.

Low atherogenicity

No one is struggling with this phenomenon, because there is no concern about the development of atherosclerosis, and in such cases there is no talk of other diseases. Meanwhile, the atherogenicity coefficient is sometimes less than the above figures (2 – 3), although in healthy young women it often fluctuates between 1.7 and 1.9. And this is considered the absolute norm. Moreover, a very good result that can be envied: clean elastic vessels without any plaques or other signs of damage. But, as mentioned above, in women after 50 years, everything can change - estrogens decrease and cease to protect the female body.

Also, a low atherogenic index can be expected in the following cases:

A long-term diet that involves targeted reduction of cholesterol (foods low in “bad” fats);
Treatment with drugs - for hypercholesterolemia;
Active sports, which, however, causes conflicting opinions among experts.

The atherogenic index is considered one of the main criteria that determines the effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapy. CA helps the doctor monitor the progress of treatment and select the correct medications, because the goal of statins is not only to reduce total cholesterol and calm down. These medications are designed to increase the concentration of the beneficial, anti-atherogenic fraction - high-density lipoproteins, which will protect the vascular walls. A decrease in HDL during treatment with statins gives reason to believe that the treatment was not chosen correctly, and continuing it not only makes no sense, but is also harmful, because in this way you can also accelerate the development of atherosclerosis. The reader has probably already guessed that reducing the atherogenicity coefficient with statin drugs on one’s own initiative can cause irreparable harm, Therefore, doctors strongly do not recommend experimenting in this way. The patient himself can reduce the concentration of bad cholesterol and reduce KA values, but these will be completely different measures.

How to help your blood vessels?

First of all, a patient who has taken a course to reduce cholesterol containing low and very low density lipoproteins should radically change his lifestyle, nutrition and give up bad habits.

If physical activity is limited due to another disease, you need to visit a doctor and develop an individual plan for feasible physical exercise. But don’t forget: movement is life!

As for, it is not at all necessary to join the ranks of vegetarians. Being a natural carnivore, humans need animal products that contain amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the human body. It’s just advisable to give preference to lean varieties of meat and fish, and heat treatment should be done by steaming or boiling (do not fry!). It is good to add various teas to your diet that lower cholesterol levels (green tea, infusions and decoctions of medicinal herbs).

And finally: if a person wants to get an adequate result of his lipid spectrum and KA, then he should come for a blood test not only on an empty stomach, but fast for 12-16 hours the day before - then there will be no needless worries, and the study will not need to be repeated.

What many people know about cholesterol is that it is harmful to our health and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. In this regard, it is necessary to reduce it and eliminate the consumption of foods containing cholesterol. All this is true, but this substance is vital for our body. Therefore, the biochemical analysis includes an atherogenic index, which determines the ratio of “good” and “bad” cholesterol in the patient’s blood. This makes it possible to form a correct opinion about the patient’s state of health. In what case can we say that the atherogenic coefficient is normal? Let’s try to figure it out.

The atherogenic coefficient is the ratio between bad and good cholesterol, with a predominance of the bad fraction. Calculation of this indicator is necessary to assess the possibility of developing atherosclerosis and its consequences: heart attacks and strokes.

Particular attention should be paid to how to correctly calculate the atherogenicity index of cholesterol indicators.

There is a simple formula by which it can be calculated:

AI = (TC – HDL): HDL, where
AI is an atherogenic index;
TC – indicator of total cholesterol;
HDL is a high-density lipoprotein.

Normal indicators for men have the following values:

up to 30 years old should not exceed 2.5 units;
from 30 to 40 years old, indicators from 2.07 to 4.92 are acceptable;
For 40-60 years, values from 3 to 3.5 units are considered normal.

As the values of the atherogenic coefficient increase, representatives of the stronger sex are prescribed additional examinations to identify and eliminate the causes of the development of pathology.

When the atherogenicity index increases to 4 units, we can talk about the adhesion of cholesterol clots to internal surfaces blood vessels. They interfere with normal blood flow and the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases increases significantly. At the time of active development of the disease, the atherogenicity index can be several times greater than 4.

Normal for women

The indicators of the atherogenic coefficient in women are lower compared to men, because the bodies of representatives of the fair half of humanity contain the hormone estrogen, under the influence of which liver tissue produces less cholesterol.

The normal indicator of atherogenicity in women is considered to be:

20-30 years up to 2.2 units;
from 30 to 40 years the norm is in the range between 1.88 and 4.4;
over 40 years old, the coefficient should not exceed 3.2;
from 50 and older, subject to menopause, the norm is 3-3.5 and is calculated according to the same principle as for men.

To obtain the correct indicators, representatives of the fairer sex should not donate blood during menstruation and pregnancy.

Important! For children under 18 years of age, the coefficient should not exceed one.

If it's higher than normal, what does that mean?

When the atherogenic index increases above 3 units, we can confidently declare the existence of a slight damage to the blood vessels. This disorder can be corrected using non-drug therapy methods: diet, exercise, giving up bad habits.

When the index approaches 4, then we can talk about the possibility of developing atherosclerotic plaques.

Exceeding the norm of the atherogenic index indicates the possibility of developing vascular and heart diseases. An index of 4 indicates that vascular walls There are already atherosclerotic plaques and the risk of developing a heart attack and stroke is quite high. Drug therapy with fibrates, statins, nicotinic acid, anticoagulants, vitamin-mineral complexes.

Exceeding the atherogenic coefficient to 7 units requires surgical treatment to prevent heart failure.

If below normal, what does that mean?

A reduced atherogenicity index (from 2 and below) is not dangerous for the body. This indicates that blood vessels clean and there is no threat of developing atherosclerosis.

A decrease in the index level may be due to several reasons that cannot be ignored:

taking statins to lower blood lipid levels;
a patient with excess body weight plays sports;
long-term low-cholesterol diet;
Erythromycin, antifungal drugs and estrogens can reduce the rate of atherogenicity.

This same index can change over time. When treated for obesity, it decreases. With heavy physical work or uncontrolled sports activities, it also decreases. And if you just rest well and eat, everything will immediately return to normal.

In men, the atherogenic coefficient may decrease from morning exercises or jogging. Before taking the test, you must strictly follow the doctor’s instructions and not overdo physical activity. If this happened, then we can say with confidence that the man has been eating food low in lipids for a long time.

When treated for fungal diseases with medications, the index will decrease. Erythromycin-based drugs also reduce the atherogenic index values.

A decrease in the level of atherogenicity in women indicates exhaustion of the body. This may be due to the consumption of low-fat foods, that is, during a diet. Moreover, they invent it themselves. Do not consult a doctor. The result is exhaustion.

Sometimes the atherogenic coefficient decreases in female athletes with a significant increase in loads during preparation for competitions.

In addition, taking hormonal contraceptives containing estrogen can lower the index. In this case, the result of the study is not valid and has no significance.

Special mention must be made about vegetarians. They also have a reduced atherogenicity coefficient. The fact is that these people do not consume animal fats. Vegetable oils used little. With such a diet, the body is in a state of constant exhaustion. A reduced atherogenic index is direct evidence of this. To bring the body back to normal, you urgently need to change your diet and diversify it with foods containing fats. The help of a nutritionist will not be superfluous.

Important! Vegetarianism is especially harmful for children, because lipoproteins are important for a growing body. After all, they are necessary for the construction of new cells and are the basis of cell membranes. Thanks to them, vital metabolic processes occur in the body.

What to do if the atherogenic index is not normal

When low, you need to eat food with a normal fat content. This should be done under the guidance of a nutritionist. An independent transition from a “starvation” diet to eating everything and in any quantity can lead to an increase in blood sugar and the development of diabetes. The level of low-density lipoproteins will sharply increase, which is dangerous for the development of atherosclerosis.

The hardest thing is for athletes. All problems with a decrease in the atherogenic index should be resolved by a sports doctor. It is impossible to reduce physical activity, but changing your diet is quite possible. The fact is that most of the fat will eventually turn into energy, which athletes need to win. Apparently it’s worth thinking about changing the menu and introducing products containing “good” lipoproteins into it.

The main condition for all patients is to comply with the rules for donating blood for tests, and in particular for determining the atherogenic coefficient.

The day before donating blood for analysis, you need to remove fatty foods from your diet. Dinner should consist of simple and light dishes: cereals and vegetables.
On the day before the test and on the day of the test itself, refrain from doing physical exercise and try to avoid psycho-emotional shocks.
Do not smoke 30 minutes before donating blood for testing.
Do not eat or drink.
Do not drink alcoholic beverages for 24 hours before donating blood for analysis.
Sit quietly for 5 minutes before drawing blood.

To make sure the analysis is correct, you can take it again at another medical institution.

Important! A decrease or increase in the atherogenic coefficient is equally bad for the body. We must not forget about this.

It is important for every person to know what the atherogenic index is and how to calculate it, since deviation of this indicator from the norm (in particular, an increase in the level) leads to atherosclerosis, obesity, and the appearance of cholesterol plaques in the vessels. And all this is the result of the accumulation of cholesterol in the blood due to poor nutrition, abuse of fatty foods and fast foods.

The harmfulness of cholesterol has been known for a long time, but only in the 20th century did doctors start talking about its vital necessity for the body in moderate quantities. In fact, cholesterol can be both good and bad, and is not so bad if it is present in the body.

It is required:

to maintain digestive functions;
to take part in the synthesis of hormones;
to build the structure of cells in the brain.

Excess (as well as deficiency) leads to dysfunction of many body systems.

Which part is predominant in the body can be identified by taking a blood test for biochemistry, thereby recognizing your atherogenicity coefficient. How to calculate it?

The atherogenicity coefficient of cholesterol is checked by studying the indicators of a biochemical blood test for the ratio of cholesterol levels to lipoproteins (special proteins) moving in a complex throughout the body.

After eating and breaking down food, high, medium or low density lipoproteins are released, fatty acid compounds and triglycerides are formed in the blood vessels.

There is nothing terrible, even if high level cholesterol in the blood, the ratio between these hypoproteins will remain normal.

The atherogenic coefficient is calculated using the formula: TC-HDL/HDL cholesterol and is measured in mmol/l, where the cholesterol value is denoted as:

THC - total cholesterol.
HDL cholesterol is high density cholesterol.

Normally, the atherogenic coefficient in an adult is 3.5 mmol/l. Exceeding the mark above 4 mmol/l already indicates the presence bad cholesterol in blood, initial stage development of atherosclerosis. A decrease in AI norm below 3 mol/l does not have any particular clinical significance for the body.

It is the increase in the index that poses the danger, as evidenced by:

about the deposition of fat in the blood arteries;
about the formation of plaques;
about blocking, narrowing of arterial lumens;
about blocking the outflow of blood;
about lack of oxygen, nutrients to the brain;
about the development of anemia, cerebral stroke, heart attack.

Negative consequences when the level of the atherogenic index in the blood is exceeded are inevitable. With an increase in lipoprotein levels and a decrease in immunity, the patient begins to suffer from depression and various infectious diseases.

A blood test to detect AI indicators is carried out by collecting biological material from a vein.

The procedure requires the patient to preliminary preparation to get more reliable results:

Adjustment of nutrition in 2 weeks with refusal to eat fatty, fried foods, fast food.
Avoid eating 12 hours and drinking water 1 hour before the test.
Stop smoking within 3 hours.
To eliminate any emotional stress, it is important to remain calm when donating blood.

Thus, after studying the main blood parameters, it will be possible to find out whether the atherogenic index indicators are underestimated or overestimated.

But they can be greatly distorted if the described rules are not followed before preparing for the procedure:

smoking;
prolonged fasting;
taking the day before fatty and sweet foods, animal fats, and anabolic steroids;
in women during pregnancy.

If a person has previously been ill serious illness, for example, myocardial infarction, or a surgical operation was performed, then at least 6-7 weeks must pass before a lipid profile can be performed to identify indicators of the atherogenic index.

The main thing is to identify the reason that led to an increase in AI and bad cholesterol levels, calculate the atherogenicity coefficient and try to bring the resulting level back to normal.

You can, of course, resort to taking medications, but doctors advise first of all to follow some rules.

Eradicate bad habits- smoking and alcohol.
Avoid a passive sedentary lifestyle and eating foods of animal origin and fast food.
Fight excess weight, especially for people over 45 years old, when the so-called level begins to increase bad cholesterol.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Follow a diet that includes only plant foods and a complete rejection of animal fats in case of higher level atherogenic index.
Reduce salt intake.
Dose physical activity, do dancing, yoga.
Walk more.
Avoid overwork and emotional exhaustion.

You need to completely avoid taking certain foods:

rich meat soups;
lactic acid dishes;
premium bread;
fat sour cream;
mayonnaise;
margarine;
sausages;
offal;
fried potatoes;
chips;
hot sauces;
ice cream;
chocolate products.

And proper nutrition will help:

regulation of the atherogenic index;
increasing good cholesterol, eradicating bad cholesterol;
normalization of body weight.

It is useful to carry out juice therapy to normalize cholesterol levels and reduce indicators. For example, combine carrot juice with beetroot or cucumber, drinking 0.5 cups per day in combination. You can take celery, apple, cabbage, and orange juice for 5-6 days until your cholesterol levels return to normal. Thus, you can control your atherogenic coefficient in the blood and bring its value to a normal level.

Knowing that cholesterol can be both harmful and beneficial is important for everyone: in order to check their AI, it is recommended that an adult undergo and take a blood test for biochemistry at least once a month, thereby calculating his atherogenic coefficient and achieving a regulation of the level.

Of course, this will not be possible if you do not eliminate the provoking factors and improve your diet by refusing to eat fatty carcinogenic foods.

To fight with high cholesterol definitely necessary.

Its accumulation in the blood leads to many troubles:

clogged blood vessels;
the appearance of cholesterol plaques;
failure in metabolic processes;
obesity.

A healthy lifestyle will definitely benefit you. It is always nice to cleanse the body of accumulated harmful substances, and the blood vessels of unnecessary bad cholesterol, if you carry out a simple calculation of your AI using the above formula.

The results of the lipidogram “atherogenic coefficient is reduced” - what is it? In a nutshell, this is good news.

People with a low atherogenic coefficient have a lower risk of developing pathologies of the circulatory system and a lower risk of heart attack and stroke.

Most often, a moderate or low coefficient of atherogenicity occurs in people who observe proper diet, and among athletes.

In addition, a decrease in this indicator can be caused by taking medications for weight loss and certain antifungal drugs.

The compound cholesterol or cholesterol is often mentioned in various materials on cardiovascular health. What is this substance, how does it enter the body and what functions does it perform?

In the simplest approximation, cholesterol is fatty compounds dissolved in the blood. WITH various products The body receives many fats of different composition, each of them performs a specific function.

Since fats do not dissolve in water, to transport these elements into tissues digestive organs subject them to primary processing.

Special proteins create a kind of capsule, inside which fats are contained. The resulting compounds, lipoproteins, dissolve perfectly in the blood and enter the internal organs to nourish cells.

Lipoproteins are usually divided into two large groups: low and high density. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is liquid cholesterol.

The key role of this substance is the construction of cells. Liquid cholesterol is necessary to create the cell membrane, the shell, without which normal cell functioning is impossible.

Liquid cholesterol is used in digestive system for the secretion of bile, helps maintain immunity, improves the functioning of the brain and nervous system.

Despite so many positive properties, liquid cholesterol is often called harmful or bad. This is because excess liquid cholesterol in the bloodstream can lead to the formation of cholesterol plaques.

The molecules of this substance are able to attach to the walls of blood vessels, reducing their elasticity, creating the risk of spasms.

If there is a lot of liquid cholesterol, the excess gradually accumulates on the walls of blood vessels and forms a kind of plug.

As a result, blood flow is disrupted and there is a risk of spontaneous cleavage of cholesterol clots and complete blockage of blood vessels (heart attack).

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is the so-called hard, healthy cholesterol.

This compound plays the role of a kind of filter in the body. HDL is transported through the bloodstream and binds excess liquid cholesterol and then removes it from the circulatory system.

Solid cholesterol is called beneficial for its anti-atherogenic properties: a large amount of this substance in the blood means clean and flexible blood vessels, and, accordingly, a reduced risk of disease.

What does the atherogenicity coefficient mean?

When diagnosing the general tone of the cardiovascular system, it is important for doctors to know the value of all three indicators: the total amount of lipids, the amount of liquid and solid cholesterol.

The coefficient (or index) of atherogenicity is a conditional numerical value that indicates the ratio of these three indicators.

The atherogenic coefficient is calculated using a simple mathematical formula: (TC - HDL) / HDL, where TC is the total amount of cholesterol, HDL is solid, healthy cholesterol.

Atherogenic coefficient values below 2 are considered good.

This indicator indicates that the circulatory system is protected; the amount of solid cholesterol is quite capable of removing excess liquid cholesterol.

An atherogenic index above 3 indicates that there is significantly more bad cholesterol in the bloodstream than good cholesterol.

This means that the patient may develop cholesterol plugs, the vessels gradually lose their elasticity and become susceptible to diseases.

In itself, an increased atherogenic index is not considered a disease; it is just the likelihood of the occurrence of vascular and heart pathologies.

Direct connection between heart attacks, strokes, etc. acute conditions and the level of atherogenicity is not present, high values of this index are not considered an early diagnosis of diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Increased content of liquid cholesterol in circulatory system– this is the vulnerability of blood vessels and a high risk of atherosclerosis.

Preparation and when should you take the test?

A blood test for lipid content is considered preventive, and therefore recommended for periodic testing for absolutely everyone.

If a person is young and healthy, then you can donate blood for a lipid profile (a comprehensive study of the presence of fats in the blood) once every 5 years.

If, according to the results of the first analysis, the atherogenicity coefficient is increased, then it is recommended to adjust the diet and periodically retake the analysis to assess the dynamics.

There are so-called high-risk groups - people who are initially more likely to develop vascular and heart diseases.

It is better for such people to donate blood for atherogenicity regularly, especially if the indicators are not the most optimistic.

High-risk groups include:

older patients (after 50);
obese people;
hypertensive patients;
patients with diabetes mellitus;
patients who have had a heart attack or pre-infarction condition.

The conditional risk group includes people whose close relatives suffer from diseases of the heart or circulatory system.

Predisposition to such diseases is inherited, so if there is a history of heart attacks or atherosclerosis in the family, then you should regularly check your blood for atherogenicity.

No special preparation is required for the analysis. To measure the amount of cholesterol in laboratories, venous blood is used.

It is necessary to donate biomaterial on an empty stomach (wait at least 12 hours after eating). During the day you need to give up alcohol and, if possible, cigarettes. Half an hour before donating blood, it is recommended to sit down and relax.

The main task is not to distort the analysis results due to time differences. Therefore, it is not recommended to start new diets, especially those aimed at low fat intake, or to start taking medications and dietary supplements for weight loss.

Postpone drastic lifestyle changes. If you do not play sports, then you should not start 1-2 weeks before the analysis.

If you exercise regularly (run, swim, go to the gym), then it is better to postpone training on the day of the test. Try to avoid stress and psycho-emotional stress a few days before the test.

If you are taking any medications (including contraceptives), then you must inform your doctor about this. Some medications may temporarily lower the amount of lipids in the blood and distort test results.

What does the reduced ratio mean?

In general, a low coefficient of atherogenicity is good indicator. In adults without chronic pathologies an atherogenic index below 2 means a balanced diet and a low risk of developing cardiovascular pathologies.

Despite the apparent simplicity of deciphering this indicator, only a doctor can make a full conclusion about the atherogenic coefficient.

It is not only age that needs to be taken into account (the norm varies for different age categories), but also medical history patient.

In women, a reduced atherogenicity coefficient may indicate a prolonged diet. If a woman is prone to obesity and constantly exhausts her body with fasting or too strict a diet, low atherogenicity is rather a cry from the body for help.

All the positive functions of cholesterol, including liquid cholesterol, were mentioned above. With a chronic lack of fat, the body may find itself without building material for cells, and the intestines may be without the necessary digestive juices.

In the long term, this imbalance can slow down your metabolism and only make your weight problem worse.

A reduced atherogenicity coefficient in men is extremely rare. As a rule, this result indicates that the patient neglected the rules of preparation for the analysis.

If before taking blood the man was training or drank alcohol the day before, the results are considered unreliable.

Some medical supplies distort the level of fats in the blood, especially antifungal drugs.

Reduced atherogenicity in children is a serious cause for concern for parents. With rare exceptions, vascular problems caused by high cholesterol do not threaten children.

But a lack of cholesterol indicates that cells do not have enough nutrients for growth.

If a child experiences a lack of cholesterol for a long time, then metabolic disorders and the development of the most various pathologies. Most often, the causes of low cholesterol lie in poor diet.

What does the atherogenic coefficient mean in a blood test? Atherogenic coefficient – ​​normal values. What is the atherogenic coefficient in a blood test?

Why do you need an atherogenic index?

Types of cholesterol and atherogenicity coefficient

What to do if the coefficient is high

What can affect blood test results?

Atherogenic coefficient - what is it?

How is the cholesterol atherogenic coefficient formed?

Ratio of “good” and “bad” cholesterol

About the causes of atherosclerosis

Atherogenicity index: norm in women and reasons for increasing the atherogenicity coefficient

Reasons for increased rates in women

Atherogenicity coefficient: the norm in men and methods for reducing blood cholesterol

Reasons for increased rates in men

Atherogenic index: how to calculate and what to do to reduce it

Naive look

Atherogenic coefficient - what is it? What is the norm?

Normal blood cholesterol levels in women

Atherogenic coefficient (AC): what is it, the norm in the blood, why is it increased, how to lower it

Atherogenicity

Great analysis and simple calculation

When the index is raised

Low atherogenicity

How to help your blood vessels?

Atherogenicity

Great analysis and simple calculation

When the index is raised

Low atherogenicity

How to help your blood vessels?

Normal for women

If it's higher than normal, what does that mean?

If below normal, what does that mean?

What to do if the atherogenic index is not normal

What does the atherogenicity coefficient mean?

Preparation and when should you take the test?

What does the reduced ratio mean?

What does the atherogenic coefficient mean in a blood test? Atherogenic coefficient – normal values. What is the atherogenic coefficient in a blood test?