Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lipoprotein (a)?
Lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a), is a type of lipoprotein in the blood similar to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) but with an additional protein called apolipoprotein(a). Key points include:
- Structure: Lp(a) consists of an LDL-like particle and apolipoprotein(a), varying greatly due to genetic differences.
- Genetics: Lp(a) levels are largely genetic and resistant to lifestyle changes.
- Cardiovascular Risk: High Lp(a) levels are a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, contributing to heart disease and thrombosis.
- Measurement: Lp(a) is measured via a blood test, with levels remaining fairly constant throughout life. Home test are already being sold online.
- Clinical Implications: Elevated Lp(a) indicates increased cardiovascular risk. Management focuses on controlling other risk factors since options to lower Lp(a) are limited. Why is Lipoprotein (a) important?
Lipoprotein(a), often abbreviated as Lp(a), is a type of lipoprotein similar to low-density lipoprotein (LDL). High levels of Lp(a) are considered a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease and stroke.
How can I check my Lipoprotein (a) levels?
- Consult with a Healthcare Provider: Talk to your doctor about your interest in checking your lipoprotein(a) levels. The price ranges from 10 to 20 dollars.
- Get a Blood Test:
- Prescription: Your doctor will write a prescription for the blood test, specifically requesting lipoprotein(a) levels.
- Lab Appointment: You may need to schedule an appointment at a laboratory or a hospital that can perform the test. Some primary care offices can also draw blood for this purpose.
- Fasting: Follow any instructions given by your doctor or the lab. Some lipid tests require fasting, although this is not always necessary for lipoprotein(a).
- Blood Draw: A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. This is a quick and relatively painless procedure.
- Laboratory Analysis: The blood sample will be sent to a laboratory where it will be analyzed to measure your lipoprotein(a) levels.
- Results: Once the analysis is complete, your healthcare provider will receive the results. Values:
- Normal: Less than 75 nmol/L
- Borderline high: 75-125 nmol/L
- High: More than 125 nmol/L
What is the Pauling Protocol?
The Linus Pauling Protocol, is a nutritional approach for cardiovascular disease. It is named after Linus Pauling, a two-time Nobel laureate who advocated for the use of high doses of certain vitamins and nutrients to improve heart health. It primarily focuses on the following key components:
- Vitamin C:
- Dosage: High doses, typically in the range of several grams per day.
- Purpose: Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, which is crucial for the structural integrity of blood vessels. Pauling believed that high doses of vitamin C could help repair damaged arteries and prevent the formation of plaques.
- Lysine and Proline:
- Dosage: Several grams per day.
- Purpose: These amino acids are thought to inhibit the binding of lipoprotein(a) to the walls of arteries, thereby preventing or reducing atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaques in the arteries).
What are the benefits of high dosage of Vitamin C?
- Immune System Support:
- Enhances immune function.
- May reduce the severity and duration of colds.
- Antioxidant Properties:
- Reduces oxidative stress.
- Protects cells from free radical damage.
- Collagen Production:
- Promotes wound and tissue healing.
- Improves skin health and reduces wrinkles.
- Cardiovascular Health:
- May lower blood pressure.
- Improves blood vessel function.
- Cancer:
- Potential to inhibit cancer cell growth and enhance treatments (more research needed).
- Iron Absorption:
- Enhances absorption of non-heme iron, beneficial for iron-deficiency anemia.
- Neuroprotection:
- May support cognitive function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases.
For how long should I take C++ HEART?
If you have a genetic history of heart disease, we strongly recommend using this product throughout your lifetime, as plaque can reaccumulate in the arteries if the product is discontinued.
If you have any other questions, please send an email to glennwesley@glennwesley.com
We are happy to help!