That’s why even minor blockages from calcium deposits can have major health implications.
Calcium buildup in these arteries can be an early warning sign of heart disease.
The beauty of this test?
A score of 0 means no detectable calciumgreat news for your heart health.
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram uses ultrasound waves to create a live picture of your heart.
This test helps your doctor see how well your heart muscles and valves are functioning.
It’s often used to diagnose conditions like heart murmurs or weakened heart muscles.
That’s where advanced lipid testing can offer a more nuanced view.
Elevated Lp(a) is considered a strong predictor of heart disease, independent of other cholesterol markers.
Diabetic risk assessment
Blood sugar and insulin resistance aretightly linked to heart disease.
Functional testing includes fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and hemoglobin A1c to assess long-term blood sugar control.
Prediabetic or diabetic ranges candouble the risk of heart disease2.
TMAO Testing
Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is a compound produced by gut bacteria.
Testing for TMAO provides insight into how your gut microbiome may be contributing to your cardiovascular risk.
If your levels are elevated, dietary changessuch as increasing fiber consumptioncan help lower TMAO levels andimprove heart health.
Nutrition
The Mediterranean diet is widely regarded asone of the best for heart health3.
The tests outlined above provide deeper insights into your cardiovascular risk, empowering you to takeproactive steps.
Take these tests to your next doctor’s visit and start optimizing your heart health today.
