Very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) is a triglyceride-rich lipoprotein that undergoes modification in circulation, eventually becoming LDL as it releases its triglycerides.
Large VLDL particles have more triglycerides and are associated with increased cardiometabolic disease risk, including cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Measuring total VLDL levels does not distinguish between large and small particles, so subfraction analysis is needed to better assess disease risk. You want to keep your VLDLs on the small side.
Factors such as diet, age, health status, and genetics can influence the size and density of VLDL particles, with larger particles being more strongly associated with negative health outcomes. Low-normal thyroid function and metabolic syndrome can also contribute to increased triglycerides, larger VLDL size, and a higher number of undesirable large VLDLs.
CLICK HERE to learn more about VLDL Size, health consequences, the ODX ranges, etc.