Total cholesterol is the sum of all types of cholesterol in the blood, and it provides a general indication of heart and vascular health.
High levels may increase the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease, while being within the normal range indicates a healthy balance between good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol.
A high-density lipoprotein (HDL) test measures the level of good cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that’s found in all of the cells in your body. It has several different functions, including helping to build your body’s cells. Cholesterol is carried through the bloodstream attached to proteins called lipoproteins.
LDL tests are a form of blood test that doctors use to measure the amount of LDL cholesterol in a persons bloodstream. LDL tests can be part of a lipid panel test, or they can measure LDL levels directly. Lipid panels can help doctors calculate LDL cholesterol levels by measuring the following: total cholesterol.
HbA1c is a blood test that is used to help diagnose and monitor people with diabetes. It is also sometimes called a hemoglobin A1c, glycated hemoglobin or glycosylated hemoglobin.
Vitamin D is essential for several reasons, including maintaining healthy bones and teeth. It may also protect against a range of diseases and conditions, such as type 1 diabetes.