Atherogenic coefficient 3.8 which means. What does it mean when the atherogenic coefficient is lowered or increased? Overestimation and underestimation of AI indicators

Recently, diseases of the cardiovascular system are often diagnosed. This is facilitated by an increase in blood levels. However, an increase in total cholesterol is not always dangerous to health. To appreciate this, it is necessary to calculate the coefficient of atherogenicity.

What is the atherogenic coefficient and why can it be increased or decreased? How to calculate the atherogenic index? What to do with deviations from the norm and how to treat? You will find answers to these and other questions in our article.

What is the "atherogenic coefficient"

To determine the atherogenic index, it is necessary to collect blood from a vein for biochemical research.

The atherogenic coefficient is the ratio of good and bad cholesterol in the blood.

This ratio helps to identify pathologies of the heart and blood vessels at the initial stage of development, as well as to assess the possibility of their occurrence in the near future.

Lipoproteins circulate in human blood. It is a combination of proteins and fats. It is these substances that are able to transport cholesterol in the blood, which is insoluble in liquid.

It should be noted that there are 2 types of lipoproteins:

If good cholesterol predominates in the blood, then the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis is very low.

Norm in analysis

The rate of this indicator depends on several factors:

The gender of the person;
Age;
Physiological state.

On average, normal indicators of the coefficient of atherogenicity are from 2 to 3 units. However, it should be noted that this figure is slightly lower for women than for men of the same age group.

Upon reaching the age of 40-50, the values of the coefficient for men and women can become equal. This is due to the onset of menopause in the representatives of the beautiful half of humanity. At this time, the risk of problems with the heart and blood vessels increases.

You should also take into account the fact that in pregnant women deviations from the norm up to 3.5 and above can be detected.

This is due to the physiological processes occurring in the body during this period. To exclude the development of pathology, it is necessary to re-determine the coefficient after childbirth in 1 - 1.5 months.

If the values are somewhat exceeded (up to 4), then there is a risk of developing atherosclerosis. At a rate above 5, atherosclerosis can be diagnosed.

Consider the norms of the coefficient of atherogenicity in the table:

If older people have coronary heart disease, then the rate for them increases slightly. It ranges from 3.5 to 4 and is the same for people of both sexes.

In children, this indicator should not exceed 1.

Calculation of the coefficient of atherogenicity

The calculation of this indicator of venous blood is carried out using the formula. However, in order to be able to make a calculation, it is necessary to perform a biochemical analysis of blood with an extended lipid profile.

In order for lipidogram data to be reliable, it is necessary to prepare for the study:

In a biochemical blood test, the following indicators are determined necessary to calculate the atherogenic index:

total cholesterol;
High density lipoproteins;
Very low density lipoproteins.

The coefficient of atherogenicity (KA) is calculated by the following formula:

Total cholesterol includes the sum of good and bad (low and very low density lipoprotein) cholesterol. If high-density lipoprotein (good cholesterol) is subtracted from the total cholesterol value, we get the amount of bad cholesterol.

Reasons for the elevated level

If the atherogenic index is exceeded by 4 units, then this means that the patient has a high risk of developing atherosclerosis, since the amount of bad cholesterol is exceeded.

The coefficient of atherogenicity is increased in the following cases:

It should be noted that an increase in the atherogenic index can occur for physiological reasons: menstruation and pregnancy.

What to do with an increased atherogenic index?

To bring the indicators to normal, it is necessary to eliminate the etiological factors. With a slight increase in values, you can use non-drug methods. If the indicators significantly exceed the norm, then drugs are prescribed.

Non-drug treatments include:

Dieting. In this case, it is recommended to exclude sausages, margarine, lard, butter, cream, fatty sour cream, fried foods, smoked fish and meat from the diet. The amount of consumed products containing animal fats is sharply reduced. Also refuse or limit the intake of simple carbohydrates (confectionery, pastries, jams and jams) into the body;
Increasing the level of physical activity;
Rejection of bad habits.

Drug treatment for an increase in the coefficient of atherogenicity includes taking such drugs:

Omega-3 supplements (flaxseed oil, fish oil capsules);
Sequesters of bile acids (Cholestyramine) has a hypocholesterolemic effect;
Statins. For example, simvastatin. These drugs are essential in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. They not only prevent the development of new atherosclerotic plaques, but also eliminate existing ones.

Reasons for the low rate

A low level of the index is less common than an increased level. And as a rule, this condition does not require medication or other correction. A low coefficient of atherogenicity can be determined both in adults and in children.

There are several groups of reasons contributing to the decrease in this indicator.:

What to do if the atherogenic coefficient is lowered and what does this mean?

First of all, it is necessary to identify the cause. If a person had excessive physical activity before the examination, then it is necessary to retake blood, excluding sports.

It should be noted that in healthy young women this indicator is always somewhat reduced. In this case, no action should be taken.

How to keep the indicator normal

In order for the indicator to remain normal, it is necessary to follow a few simple rules:

Timely identify and treat diseases that can lead to a change in the level of atherogenicity;
Stick to proper nutrition. It is necessary to consume proteins, fats and carbohydrates in moderation. Animal fats cannot be completely excluded. Nutrition should be varied and include: cereals, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, vegetable oils, nuts, fish, meat;
Do sport. Everyone needs to be physically active. If a person has diseases of the cardiovascular system, then you can walk for 40-60 minutes a day. Healthy people can do jogging and other cardio exercises, fitness. You can just do physical exercises at home, exercises in the morning;
Maintain work and rest schedule. You need to sleep at least 8 hours a day. Give preference to outdoor activities.

By adhering to a healthy lifestyle, you can maintain the level of atherogenicity within the normal range and avoid the development of atherosclerosis and serious diseases such as stroke, myocardial infarction, kidneys.

It is necessary to control the atherogenic coefficient for all young people every 2 years, and upon reaching 40 years old - once every 12 months.

When determining the atherogenic index, the ratio of harmful to good cholesterol is determined. This coefficient allows you to identify the possible presence of pathologies of the heart and blood vessels.

Fat-like substance - cholesterol is necessary for the functioning of the body. With its participation, cell membranes of tissues and organs are formed. He is involved in the creation of hormones, without them a person will not be able to grow, develop and multiply. Absorption of fats in the intestine also occurs with the participation of cholesterol.

Cholesterol does not dissolve in water. In this regard, it is covered with a shell of proteins - apoproteins. The resulting complex is called lipoprotein. There are several types of lipoproteins in the blood at the same time: low density - LDL, very low density - VLDL, high density - HDL.

The atherogenic index is the ratio of total cholesterol to high density lipoproteins. Using this indicator, the doctor determines the possibility of the presence of atherosclerotic changes in a particular patient, as well as the possible risk of developing other, no less dangerous diseases.

Very-low-density and low-density lipoproteins are classified as bad cholesterol because they form plaque in blood vessels, leading to stroke and heart attack. But high-density lipoprotein refers to the "good" cholesterol. They contribute to the removal of low density lipoproteins from the surface of the vascular walls.

In the formation of cholesterol plaques, not only the elevated level of cholesterol in the patient's body is important, but also the ratio of good and bad cholesterol. This ratio is the coefficient of atherogenicity.

How to calculate the atherogenic index?

To calculate this indicator, laboratory tests are carried out. It is necessary to determine the amount of total cholesterol and the concentration of HDL.

If problems are suspected, it is better to conduct a more complete study of fat metabolism, to analyze the blood lipid spectrum, in which indicators are determined:

HDL, which protect the body from plaque formation;
LDL, forming cholesterol deposits;
total cholesterol;
triglycerides produced by liver tissues and released into the blood as part of VLDL.

KA = (TOTAL Cholesterol - HDL): HDL

Norms for men and women

The coefficient of atherogenicity equal to 2-3 is considered to be normal. The growth of the index to 3-4 shows that the danger is moderate and you need to pay attention to the diet. An index greater than 4 clearly indicates that the risk of developing cardiac ischemia and atherosclerosis is very high. A diet in such a case is simply necessary, and possibly the use of drugs that reduce the concentration of LDL in the body.

In men, the range of the coefficient after 30 years will increase. It can range from 2.07 to 4.92.

With age, the index also becomes larger, and the standards become higher. For men aged 40-60, the coefficient ranges from 3.0 to 3.5. These norms are valid only if there are no signs of cardiac ischemia during physical work.

These include:

increased heartbeat
dyspnea;
chest pain;
feeling of lack of air.

In the presence of these symptoms, an increase in the atherogenic index from 3.5 to 4.0 is allowed.

Very rarely, the atherogenic coefficient can reach 5.0 and be considered normal for men who are in old age, who have certain features: excess weight or chronic pathologies, as well as other reasons. Despite the high indications of the atherogenic index, no special treatment is prescribed.

When determining the state of the body of women, age is taken into account. So in young women aged 20 to 30 years, an atherogenic index of less than 2.2 is considered the norm. With age, it changes from 1.88 to 4.4. Upon reaching 40-60 years, the coefficient decreases and may be less than 3.2.

For IHD in women, an index below 4.0 is acceptable.

Important! If you find an increased coefficient of atherogenicity, do not self-medicate! Only a specialist with sufficient experience can correctly draw up a therapy regimen and select the necessary medications. In addition, constant monitoring of the patient's condition and lipidograms will be required.

Reasons for the high ratio

The level of atherogenicity can increase due to the following factors:

hereditary pathologies based on atherosclerosis;
overweight patient;
bad habits such as alcoholism, smoking, drug addiction;
endocrine pathologies, diabetes mellitus in particular;
constant nervous tension;
hypodynamia;
the use of products containing animal fats in large quantities.

The main thing is to pass the tests correctly. The fact is that KA can be elevated during menstruation, during pregnancy.

Fasting has the opposite effect on the coefficient of atherogenicity. The fact is that the body begins to actively use its fat reserves. They get into the blood and will worsen the blood test if it is done at this time.

Reasons for the low ratio

With a low ratio, there is no problem with the risk of developing atherosclerosis. Sometimes CA is below normal. For young women, this index often shows 1.7-1.9 units. This is a good, normal result, indicating clean vessels without plaques or other pathologies.

In addition, a low atherogenic index can occur with a long-term diet, with active sports activities and when taking statins.

There are cases where the AI is low and the patient has cholesterol deposits over the tendons and under the skin, or CAD. In this case, we can say with confidence that the patient has a hereditary disease, quite rare - hypocholesterolemia. The mechanism and causes of the development of this pathology are not fully understood by physicians.

What affects performance?

Modern diagnostic methods make it possible to deeply and in detail study the processes occurring in the patient's body. The atherogenic coefficient allows you to accurately say whether the patient has a risk of developing atherosclerosis.

However, the results may be adversely affected by the following reasons:

smoking, especially strong cigarettes;
hormonal drugs, antifungal drugs, statins, steroids;
hypocholesterol nutrition and a diet similar to starvation;
excessive sports loads;
menstruation, menopause, pregnancy.

How is the research done?

For research, a blood sample is taken from a vein. To get more accurate results, you need to prepare as follows:

1-2 weeks to eat regular food;
do not drink alcohol per day;
drink only water, do not eat 12 hours before the analysis;
do not be nervous and do not overwork for 30 minutes;
sit down 5 minutes before taking blood.

Subject to the above measures, the deviations in the results will be less, and the values of LDL, HDL, total cholesterol will be more accurate, which will help to correctly determine the atherogenic index.

The following reasons may skew the results upwards:

smoking before blood donation;
the analysis was given standing;
a few days before the test, the patient abused fatty foods of animal origin;
starvation diet;
pregnancy;
taking anabolic and androgenic drugs.

The following reasons can reduce the atherogenic index:

blood sampling for analysis was carried out when the patient was lying down;

taking erythromycin, estrogens, antifungal drugs;

a diet that uses foods containing polyunsaturated fatty acids and low cholesterol.

Test results

Normal values of the atherogenic index are 2.2-3.5 units. With indicators above 3, "bad" cholesterol prevails in the body, which means that the risk of developing atherosclerosis of the vessels is increased.

For an accurate diagnosis, all factors must be taken into account: hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, pathologies of the heart and blood vessels, not only in the patient himself, but also in his relatives.

Who needs to take this test?

Atherogenic coefficient - part of the lipid profile, which includes indicators of total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL, HDL. Conducting a lipidogram is included in the analyzes during professional examinations.

It may be done more frequently, provided the patient is on a diet low in animal fats. And also, if a person drinks drugs to lower lipid levels. The study is carried out to control the level of cholesterol.

Another lipid profile is prescribed in cases where there are risk factors for the development of pathologies of the cardiovascular system:

obesity;
diabetes;
hypertension;
previous heart attack or stroke;
smoking, alcohol;
hereditary pathologies of the heart and blood vessels;
sedentary lifestyle;
ischemia.

People who have the listed risk factors in their lives need to donate blood for a lipid profile.

Lipid analysis is usually prescribed by a cardiologist, internist or general practitioner. After receiving the results of the study in the laboratory, the certificate is handed over to the doctor who ordered the analysis.

Important! With a high level of the atherogenic index, the risk of developing vascular and heart damage, that is, atherosclerosis, increases. This disease affects most people over 40 years of age. Atherosclerosis is a dangerous and insidious disease that can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Therefore, it is very important to know your atherogenic index and start the fight against pathology in its early stages.

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

Due to the lack of knowledge, some people go on strict diets, begin to clean the vessels with folk methods, or, even worse, take medications that can harm their health.

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

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

Thus, the calculation of the coefficient of atherogenicity allows you to determine the degree of risk of atherosclerosis.

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

There are the following lipoproteins:

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

In order to determine the risk of vascular disease, it is desirable 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 refers to fats and is a product of carboxylic acids and the trihydric alcohol glycerol.

How is the cholesterol coefficient of atherogenicity 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, then it is part of the chylomicrons, which are synthesized in the intestine. The compound is then released into the blood.

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, getting into the liver, are converted into LDL and HDL, depending on the apolyprotein with which cholesterol forms a compound.

Low density lipoproteins are called atherogenic. If they are produced in large quantities, then more fatty acids enter the cells. 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 low molecular weight, then the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis increases.

The ratio of "good" and "bad" cholesterol

The level of cholesterol in the blood can be different. For one person, it will be 7 units, for another - 4. The total cholesterol (OH) does not give a complete picture of whether there is a risk of cholesterol deposits in the vessels or not.

For example, if in the first case a high cholesterol level is achieved due to increased 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 talk about anti-atherogenicity.

In the second case, LDL can be increased, and the level of macromolecular compounds is low. This situation characterizes high atherogenicity.

For the development of atherosclerosis, a strong excess of the level of low molecular weight compounds is not necessary. Low HDL levels 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 ratio of 2 mmol / l, LDL is twice as high.

Indicators of the coefficient of atherogenicity:

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

High levels of “bad” cholesterol are caused by an unbalanced diet. Eating a large amount of fatty foods disrupts lipid metabolism, which leads to an increase in the amount of low-density lipoprotein.

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

About the causes of atherosclerosis

The main reason for 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, 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 vascular changes. The disease can develop against the background of 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 the development of pathology.

Risk factors:

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

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

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

Atherogenic index: the norm in women and the reasons for the increase in the atherogenic coefficient

Atherosclerosis of the vessels often affects men, therefore, the norms established for them are higher than for the fair sex. The atherogenic coefficient is lowered 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 coefficient of atherogenicity is reduced in women only up to 50 years. After the onset of menopause, the hormone ceases to protect the vessels and women become susceptible to the development of atherosclerosis in the same way as men.

The level of lipoproteins 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 calculation of the atherogenic index is carried out according to the formula, where AI is determined by the difference between total cholesterol and high density plipoproteins, divided by the HDL index.

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

Reasons for the increase in performance in women

The first reason for the increase in CA in women is malnutrition. If the 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 of physical activity, then it accumulates in the 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 an increase in blood cholesterol levels. It is noteworthy that alcohol enhances the process of lipid metabolism.

However, you should not use it for this purpose, since alcohol causes other dangerous diseases, and also interferes with the normal functioning of the 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, an increase in CA is promoted by a violation of protein-fat metabolism. Therefore, when analyzing blood, such an indicator as the level of triglycerides is also taken into account.

Norms of triglycerides (mmol / l):

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

On the Internet, women are interested in the question: what to do if the atherogenic coefficient is increased in the form of a blood test. Such an indicator of CA can occur for various reasons, so the approach to treatment should be individualized.

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

In order to exclude the negative effect of cholesterol on blood vessels, concomitant diseases should be treated: cytomegalovirus or chlamydial infection, diabetes mellitus, hypertension. During menopause, women are prescribed estrogen replacement therapy.

Atherogenic coefficient: the norm in men and methods for lowering cholesterol in the blood

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

The level of lipoproteins 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 50-60 years, normal values may change, as the natural processes of protein-fat metabolism are disrupted.

Atherogenic coefficient: norm in men by age (mmol / l):

20-30 years - 2.5;
after thirty years - 3.5.

Reasons for the increase in indicators in men

The causes of an increase in CA, just like in women, are a violation of protein-fat metabolism. These include oversaturation of the body with animal fats, a sedentary lifestyle, stress, smoking and other factors that negatively affect the metabolism of fats.

In some cases, the coefficient of atherogenicity can be increased in the process of taking hormonal drugs. However, this occurs only for the duration of treatment, and after stopping the medication, the patient sees the atherogenic index as the norm on the test form.

In a biochemical blood test in men, the level of lipid energy reserve in the body is also revealed. The norms of triglycerides 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 rather than fry. If you can’t seriously go in for sports, then regular walking will help. For example, you can walk to work instead of using public transport.

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

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

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

To determine the fractions of lipid compounds in the laboratory, precipitation and photometry methods are used. Then the calculation of the coefficient of atherogenicity is performed.

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

The basic formula for the atherogenic index, which is commonly used in the processing of blood test data, is as follows: IA \u003d (Cholesterol - HDL) / HDL, where AI is an atherogenic index, cholesterol is total cholesterol, and HDL is a macromolecular compound.

In some cases, it is required to calculate the atherogenic coefficient index taking into account low and very low density lipoproteins. The latter are detected through an indicator of the concentration of triglycerides. VLDL = TG / 2.2. Thus, the general formula is as follows: AI \u003d (LDL + TG / 2.2) / HDL.

The atherogenic coefficient, the norm of which is exceeded, requires the establishment of the cause of such a condition. Not necessarily there is a violation of lipid metabolism, an increase in CA can be caused by pregnancy or other temporary hormonal disruptions. Therefore, you should not self-medicate, otherwise you can disrupt the natural mechanisms of the body.

In some diseases, treatment with hormonal drugs is prescribed, in which the norm of the atherogenic coefficient increases. The course of treatment is controlled by a doctor who determines the risks, and if another pathology is suspected, the therapy can be changed.

Diets contribute to the reduction of the coefficient of atherogenicity. However, this approach can also have a downside. For example, a severe restriction of a person in fats, on the contrary, provokes an increased production of lipids in the body. Therefore, catering without excess fat should be competent.

Foods to Avoid:

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

Products that need to be consumed to replenish the body with fats:

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

A good addition to proper nutrition will be green tea and freshly squeezed juices from fruits and vegetables. Do not forget about clean water, which contributes to the natural cleansing of the body. It should be drunk at least 1.5 liters per day, not including other drinks.

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

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

What forms a low coefficient of atherogenicity:

taking blood tests in the supine position;
diets that exclude animal fats;
active sports or other physical activity;
taking a number of drugs: medicines containing estrogens, colchicine, antifungal agents, clofibrate, satins.

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

If, against the background of a decrease in total cholesterol levels, HDL decreases, then this cannot be called a 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.

It is difficult to meet a person who does not know about the dangers of cholesterol, dangerous diseases caused by an excess of this element in the body. From here, people, seeing inflated cholesterol levels in the results of a blood test, begin to exhaust themselves with various diets, restrict food and, worse, prescribe medication for themselves. But we must remember one thing - cholesterol is divided into harmful and useful. The latter is simply necessary for the life of our body. How much your level of "bad" cholesterol is exceeded helps to find out the atherogenic index, which is calculated according to the results of a biochemical blood test.

What is atherogenic?

This is such a ratio of harmful and beneficial cholesterol for the body, where its "bad" fraction predominates. For what purpose is calculated To assess the risk of atherosclerosis in a patient.

As we already mentioned, the calculations are based on the results of a biochemical study of a patient's blood sample.

Cholesterol and lipoproteins

In order for you to understand the calculation of the atherogenic index, we will present a little theory. What is cholesterol? These are soluble complex compounds in the blood. Cholesterol is not alone here - it is in conjunction with protein. This compound is called lipoprotein (lipoprotein).

The latter are inhomogeneous. There are groups:

High molecular weight lipoproteins (HDL). They are distinguished by high density.
Low molecular weight lipoproteins (LDL). Differ in low density.
Very low molecular weight lipoproteins (VLDL). Compounds of the lowest density.

Hence, to present a complete picture, calculate the atherogenic index, the doctor needs a lipidogram with information about the total cholesterol content in the blood, each of its fractions presented above, as well as data on triglyceride (refers to fats - a product of 3-atomic alcohol glycerol and carboxylic acids).

"Good" and "bad" lipoproteins

Cholesterol is present in the body as follows:

80% of its total mass is produced by the liver, intestinal tract, kidney system, gonads, adrenal glands. Then cholesterol interacts with proteins, forming LDL, HDL.
20% enters the body with food. In this case, cholesterol is present in the chylomicron, which is formed in the intestine. Next, the compound enters the bloodstream.

The further path of formations is as follows:

LDL will be transported from the liver to body tissues.
HDL, on the other hand, moves to the liver.
Chylomicrons travel to peripheral tissues and the liver.

High molecular weight lipoproteins will be produced by the liver. Chylomicrons in it are divided into LDL and HDL - it all depends on the apoliprotein with which the cholesterol is combined.

"Harmful" here will be considered low-density lipoproteins. They are called atherogenic. The more of them, the more fatty acids enter the tissues. The latter will be removed from the cells by binding to "good" high-density lipoproteins. Once in the liver, cholesterol is completely hydrolyzed.

The high molecular weight lipoproteins we need are synthesized only by the liver. They do not enter the body with products. But the category of polyunsaturated fats, which belong to the omega-3 group, can contribute to an increase in this fraction in the blood. In particular, they are present in fatty fish products.

But the formation of "bad" cholesterol just provokes food - excessively fatty foods, an unbalanced diet. This disrupts lipid metabolism in the body. The result is the production of a large amount of LDL.

Atherogenic index - what does it mean? This is the ratio of harmful LDL to beneficial HDL in the human body. Accordingly, if the volume of low-density lipoproteins is higher, then the patient has a risk of atherosclerosis.

What does total cholesterol mean?

How to decipher blood test results? OH - this will be the name of the column with the total level of cholesterol in the blood. Someone here will have 7, and someone will have 4. But this figure does not affect the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis in a patient!

The fact is that OH shows the total volume of lipoproteins in the blood - both HDL and LDL. Let's take a look at what can increase the level of OH:

In the patient's blood, a large amount of HDL, that is, the necessary high-molecular lipoproteins. They are the useful elements that transport fats from cells for further processing in the liver. A high level of HDL will indicate anti-atherogenicity.
In the patient's blood, on the contrary, the volume of low molecular weight lipoproteins is overestimated, and the number of HDL is low. This already indicates a high atherogenicity.
The risk of atherosclerosis will not only be in a person with an elevated level of LDL in the blood. High atherogenicity persists if the number of lipoproteins of the low molecular weight group is normal, and the volume of HDL is underestimated.

Now you know that it is the analysis of the atherogenic index that is required to determine the risk of diagnosing atherosclerosis. OH cannot be the only starting point.

Index indicators

Imagine the general norm of the atherogenic index, deviations from it:

Up to 3 - normal limits.
Up to 4 is already an increased figure. However, it will help to reduce special diets, physical activity.
Over 4 is an alarming sign, indicating the imminent development of atherosclerosis. The patient needs special treatment.

What are the high scores talking about?

If the index is elevated (more than 3 mmol / l), then cholesterol is already beginning to be deposited on the vascular walls. The higher this indicator, the more active the process is.

The result is the formation of cholesterol plaques on the vascular walls. Over time, such deposits grow, narrowing the lumen of the vessels. In addition, calcium salts accumulate in plaques. And these elements pathologically affect the vessels - the latter lose their elasticity, dystrophic processes are observed in them.

Plaques can collapse, then transforming into blood clots. This contributes to the development of thromboembolism - a rather dangerous disease that can result in sudden death due to blockage of blood vessels by blood clots.

Causes of atherosclerosis

It is important for everyone to know what it means - the atherogenic index. After all, the main cause of atherosclerosis is an increased level of LDL in the blood. However, the disease can additionally be provoked by related factors:

Age changes.
Wrong way of life.
Infectious diseases.
A number of certain diseases.

In addition, individuals are identified who will be a "risk group" - they have a high probability of developing atherosclerosis. Here the main factors will be:

Heredity.
Age over 60 years.
Floor. Men suffer from the disease more often than women.
Increased body weight.
Hypertension.
Diabetes.
Smoking.
Infectious diseases - herpes, cytomegalovirus, chlamydia.

Norms for a woman

We have analyzed in general what it means - the atherogenic index. In women, its indicators are lower than in men. This is due to the hormone estrogen, which is present in the fair sex. The element has a positive effect on the vascular walls, additionally providing them with elasticity. But only until the "golden" anniversary. After menopause, estrogen can no longer protect the walls of blood vessels.

Consider the indicators of the norm of the atherogenic index in women:

Up to 30 years - up to 2.2 mmol / l.
After 30 years - up to 3.2 mol / l.
After 50 years - must be calculated as for men.

Other normal indicators of the level of lipoproteins up to 50 years:

OH - 3.6-5.2 mmol / l.
High density LP - 0.86-2.28 mmol / l.
Low density LP - 1.95-4.51 mmol / l.

Norms of triglyceride compounds:

1.78-2.2 mmol / l is a normal indicator.
2.2-5.6 mmol / l are overestimated figures.
More than 5.6 is a concentration dangerous to health.

Reasons for the increase

What does this mean in women - the atherogenic index, we already know. What are the reasons for its increase? There are several of them:

The very first is an improper, unbalanced diet. A woman eats a lot of fatty foods - pork, sour cream, butter, and so on.
Insufficient physical activity.
Smoking is a bad habit that slows down fat metabolism in the body.
hereditary factor.
Infections - chlamydia, cytomegalovirus.
Hypertension.
Diabetes.
The onset of menopause.

Norms for males

Imagine the norm of the atherogenic index in men:

Up to 30 years - 2.5 mmol / l.
After 30 years - 3.5 mmol / l.

OH - 3.5-6 mmol / l.
High molecular weight lipoproteins - 0.7-1.76 mmol / l.
LP of the low molecular weight group - 2.21-4.81 mmol / l.

Accordingly, after reaching the age of 50-60, the normal indicators of these values will grow upwards, which is associated with age-related changes in the body.

Reasons for the increase

We analyzed the atherogenic index in men. Imagine now, because of which its indicators can be overestimated in the stronger sex:

Violation of protein, fat metabolism in the body is a consequence of the oversaturation of the system with animal fats.
Wrong way of life.
Inactive work.
Lack of active leisure, sports.
Stress.
Insufficient physical activity.
Smoking.

How to calculate the index?

The formula for the atherogenic index is simple. Based on the results of a biochemical study, not only a specialist, but also a non-professional can calculate its value.

It is presented like this:

And \u003d (OH - HDL) / HDL.

Here is the breakdown of the abbreviations:

And - the result of calculations, namely, the atherogenic index.
OH - total cholesterol in the blood mass.
HDL - the number of high molecular weight lipoproteins.

Treatment of the condition

The atherogenic index is increased - what does this mean? Do not be afraid - not always the consequence will be the rapid development of atherosclerosis and its complications. First of all, the treating specialist determines the reason for the increase in performance. This may be a temporary failure caused by pregnancy, hormonal changes.

Treatment, both medication and diet, is prescribed only by a doctor! Someone is prescribed hormonal drugs, for some patients it is enough to follow the instructions of a nutritionist.

An abrupt change in nutrition, for example, a severe restriction of the body in incoming fats, will not always have a positive effect. On the contrary, this may lead to an increased production of lipids by the body, which provokes stress from their lack. Hence, catering should be competent - only with the approval of a specialist.

Useful and harmful products

The atherogenic index is increased. What does it mean? You should gradually change your diet:

Reduce to moderate amounts of foods that contain animal fat.
Give up fat, fatty lamb and pork, sour cream, creamy meat, egg yolks.
Eliminate trans fats from your diet. They contain margarine, spread and a number of similar products.

And now a list of what will be useful for your diet:

Marine fish are predominantly fatty varieties.
Nuts. The biggest benefit is in walnuts.
Vegetable oil. Flaxseed, sunflower or olive.
Fresh juices.
Fresh fruits and vegetables.
Purified drinking water in large quantities - up to 1.5 liters per day.

Medical and mechanical therapy

When the atherogenic index is much increased, it is already difficult to manage with one diet. In such cases, the doctor prescribes a special treatment for the patient:

Medical therapy. These are satins (drugs that artificially reduce the production of cholesterol), cation exchangers (aimed at binding bile acids in the intestines), drugs with omega-3 fats (drugs lower LDL levels).
mechanical therapy. This is extracorporeal hemocorrection. In other words, mechanical purification of the blood mass. To do this, blood is taken from the patient's vein, it is purified through special filters, and then injected back.

What creates a low index?

What needs to be done so that the atherogenic index at the next analysis is lower? It is enough to follow a few simple rules:

Assume the correct position when taking a blood sample. As a rule, the patient should lie down, be calm and relaxed. This affects the accuracy of the results.
Work with a professional dietitian to develop a diet that reduces/eliminates animal fats.
Direct your attention to a healthy lifestyle - choose your favorite sports direction or other physical activities (hiking, tourist routes, etc.)
Take special drugs - but only those prescribed by your doctor. These are satins, clofibrate, antifungal agents, colchicine, drugs containing estrogens. It is also important to observe the frequency of administration and dosage. If, against the background of a decrease in the total cholesterol volume, the volume of high-molecular-weight lipoproteins also decreases, then the treatment is immediately stopped.

Thus, low or high TC values will not tell you anything about the risk of diagnosing atherosclerosis and its consequences. It is worth paying attention only to the atherogenic index. Its low values specifically for your gender and age are an indicator that everything is in order with the vessels!

It is important for each person to know what the atherogenic index is and how to calculate it, since the 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 malnutrition, the abuse of fatty foods and fast foods.

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

It is required:

to maintain digestive functions;
to participate 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.

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

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

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

There is nothing terrible if, even with a high level of cholesterol in the blood, the ratio between these hypoproteins remains normal.

The calculation of the coefficient of atherogenicity is carried out according to the formula: total cholesterol-HDL / HDL and is measured in mmol / l, where the cholesterol value is indicated as:

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

Normally, the atherogenic coefficient in an adult is 3.5 mmol / l. Exceeding the mark of more than 4 mmol / l already indicates the presence of bad cholesterol in the blood, the initial stage of the development of atherosclerosis. Lowering the AI norm below 3 mol/l has no special clinical significance for the body.

The danger is precisely the increase in the index, evidenced by:

about the deposition of fat in the blood arteries;
about the formation of plaques;
about overlapping, narrowing of arterial lumens;
about blocking the outflow of blood;
about the lack of oxygen and nutrients in 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 lipoproteins and a decrease in immunity, the patient begins to suffer from depression and various infectious diseases.

A blood test to identify indicators of AI is carried out by taking biological material from a vein.

The procedure requires some preliminary preparation from the patient in order to obtain more reliable results:

Settlement of nutrition for 2 weeks with the refusal to take fatty, fried foods, fast food.
Refusal to eat for 12 hours and from drinking water for 1 hour before the analysis.
Stop smoking within 3 hours.
Elimination of all kinds of emotional overstrain, when donating blood, it is important to remain calm.

Thus, after studying the main blood parameters, it will be possible to find out whether the indicators of the atherogenic index 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 on the eve of fatty and sweet foods, animal fats, as well as anabolic steroids;
in women during pregnancy.

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

The main thing is to identify the cause that led to an increase in AI and bad cholesterol, calculate the atherogenic 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.
Give up a passive sedentary lifestyle and eating of animal origin, fast food.
Fight excess weight, especially for people over 45 years old, when the so-called level of bad cholesterol begins to rise.
Follow a healthy lifestyle.
Follow a diet with the inclusion of only plant foods in the diet and the complete rejection of animal fats in case of an increased level of the atherogenic index.
Reduce salt intake.
Dose physical activity, do dancing, yoga.
Walk more.
Avoid overwork, emotional exhaustion.

You need to completely refuse to take some products:

rich meat soups;
lactic acid foods;
bread of the highest grade;
fat sour cream;
mayonnaise;
margarine;
sausage products;
offal;
fried potatoes;
chips;
hot sauces;
ice cream;
chocolate products.

And proper nutrition will help:

regulation of the atherogenicity index;
increase good cholesterol, eradicate bad;
normalization of body weight.

It is useful to carry out juice therapy to normalize cholesterol levels and reduce performance. For example, combine carrot juice with beet or cucumber juice, drinking in combination 0.5 cups a day. You can take celery, apple, cabbage, orange juice for 5-6 days until the cholesterol level returns 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: an adult is recommended, in order to check his AI, to take a blood test for biochemistry at least once a month, thereby calculating his atherogenic coefficient, to achieve level regulation.

Of course, this will not work if you do not eliminate the provoking factors and improve nutrition by refusing to take fatty carcinogenic foods.

Fighting high cholesterol is a must.

Its accumulation in the blood leads to many troubles:

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

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